American Horror Story season 10 episode 1 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

The Gardner family arrives in Provincetown for Harry to write and Alma to redecorate a house. They encounter the town's off-season eeriness and meet a hostile local. Harry struggles with writer's block and faces a scary incident where a man chases him and Alma. Meeting local writers, he's offered mysterious pills to cure his block. After a break-in where Harry kills the intruder, the family plans to leave, but Harry reconsiders, tempted by the pills and pressure from his agent.

Full Episode S10E01 Recap

### Road Trip and Arrival in Provincetown - The Gardner family is driving to Provincetown. Harry and Alma count roadkill, discussing the sadness of animals' deaths. - They reach their destination, Provincetown (P-town), and are greeted by Martha, the house manager, who informs them about the town's history and current state. - Harry reveals he's a screenwriter, while his wife, Alma, is redecorating the house in exchange for a free stay. ### Exploring Provincetown - The family explores the town, learning about its off-season population and local quirks. - Alma, homeschooled, practices violin, aiming for perfection in her music. - The family encounters a hostile local, Karen, warning them to leave the town. ### A Night of Writing and Unexpected Visitors - Harry struggles with writer's block, and the family discusses their plans for their stay. - Alma and Harry experience a frightening encounter with a strange man chasing them. - Harry talks to the police, learning about local issues and a family murdered in Truro. - The family decides to stay despite the incident, seeing it as a significant opportunity. ### A Gruesome Discovery and Socializing with Local Writers - Harry discovers dead bodies on a beach run, suspected victims of a great white shark. - Harry and Alma dine out, meeting two local writers, Austin and Sarah (Belle Noir), who share their experiences and methods for inspiration in Provincetown. - Austin offers Harry mysterious pills to cure writer's block. ### Confrontation and Decision to Leave - A man breaks into the Gardner's house, and Harry kills him in self-defense. - Shaken by the event, the family decides to leave Provincetown. - Austin Summers invites Harry over and encourages him to take the mysterious pills for inspiration. - Under pressure from his agent, Harry faces the dilemma of whether to take the pills and stay or leave Provincetown. ### Final Scenes - The episode concludes with Harry being urged by Austin to take the pill, hinting at a significant decision about his future and creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the Gardner family?

The Gardner family consists of Harry, a screenwriter, his wife Alma, and their daughter.

What is Harry's profession?

Harry is a screenwriter.

Why is the Gardner family in Provincetown?

They are in Provincetown for Harry to write and for Alma to redecorate a house in exchange for a free stay.

What does Alma do?

Alma is redecorating the house as part of an agreement for their stay in Provincetown.

Who is Martha?

Martha is the manager of the house the Gardners are staying in.

What is unique about Provincetown in the off-season?

Its population decreases significantly, and it's known for its quiet and eerie atmosphere.

Who is Karen, and what does she do?

Karen is a local who warns the Gardners to leave the town.

What happens to Harry and Alma during their night walk?

They are chased by a strange man, leading to a frightening experience.

Who are Austin Summers and Sarah (Belle Noir)?

Austin and Sarah are local writers in Provincetown who meet Harry and Alma at a restaurant.

What do Austin and Sarah offer Harry?

They offer Harry mysterious pills that supposedly cure writer's block.

How does the Gardner family react to the break-in?

They are shaken and decide to leave Provincetown after Harry kills the intruder in self-defense.

What is the significance of the pills offered to Harry?

The pills represent a possible solution to Harry's writer's block but come with unknown consequences.

Does Harry take the pills offered by Austin?

It is hinted that Harry is considering taking the pills, but it is not confirmed.

What does Harry's agent tell him?

Harry's agent pressures him to finish his pilot and warns him about the consequences of not completing it.

What decision is Harry facing at the end of the episode?

Harry is deciding whether to take the pills for inspiration and stay in Provincetown or leave as planned.

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