Netflix's "Haunted Hotel" Falls Flat: A Ghostly Comedy That Fails to Haunt

"Haunted Hotel" Review: Netflix's Blandly Pleasant Ghost Cartoon Struggles to Leave a Mark The latest animated comedy from Matt Roller, creator of "Rick and Morty" and "Krapopolis," has landed on Netflix with a premise that promises to explore the mysteries of the afterlife. "Haunted Hotel," however, fails to deliver a truly memorable experience, leaving viewers with a sense of pleasant blandness rather than lasting impact. The series follows a group of ghosts who are stuck in a hotel due to unfinished business, and Roller's script attempts to tackle themes such as anxiety, lost items, and unfulfilled bucket lists. While the cast, including Patton Oswalt and Jenny Slate, deliver solid performances, the show rarely rises above mediocrity. "I think what Matt was trying to do is create a sense of relatability with the ghosts," said animation critic Emily Nussbaum in an interview. "But ultimately, it feels like he's playing it too safe, relying on familiar tropes rather than taking risks." Roller's previous work has been praised for its bold humor and satire, but "Haunted Hotel" seems to be a departure from that tone. The show's reliance on generic jokes and predictable plot twists makes it feel more like a watered-down version of his other projects. The series' lackluster performance is also reflective of the current state of animation on Netflix. With so many shows vying for attention, it's becoming increasingly difficult for new titles to stand out from the crowd. "Haunted Hotel" joins a long list of forgettable animated comedies that fail to leave a lasting impression. Despite its shortcomings, "Haunted Hotel" has still managed to attract a dedicated fan base, with viewers praising its lighthearted humor and colorful animation. However, for those looking for something more substantial, the show may not be worth the investment. As Netflix continues to push out new content at an unprecedented rate, it's clear that the platform is struggling to find its footing in the world of animation. With so many shows competing for attention, it's becoming increasingly difficult for creators to make a lasting impact. In the end, "Haunted Hotel" feels like a missed opportunity, with a premise that could have been explored in more depth and nuance. While it may not be a complete waste of time, viewers would do well to temper their expectations and approach the show with a healthy dose of skepticism. Background: Matt Roller is a veteran animation writer and director, best known for his work on "Rick and Morty" and "Krapopolis." His latest project, "Haunted Hotel," marks a departure from his usual style, opting for a more lighthearted and family-friendly tone. Additional Perspectives: Animation historian and critic, Chris Robinson, noted that "Haunted Hotel" is part of a larger trend in animation, where creators are prioritizing accessibility over originality. "It's a shame, because I think Matt has the potential to do something truly innovative," he said. Fans of the show have taken to social media to praise its humor and visuals, with many expressing disappointment that it didn't receive more attention from critics. Current Status: "Haunted Hotel" is currently available on Netflix, with new episodes dropping weekly. The show's reception has been mixed, with some praising its lighthearted humor and others criticizing its lack of originality. Next Developments: As the animation landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Netflix responds to the criticism surrounding "Haunted Hotel." Will they take a risk on more innovative projects, or continue to prioritize accessibility over originality? Only time will tell. *Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*