October Faction: Supernatural World of the Netflix

“October Faction” is a captivating supernatural drama series that debuted on Netflix in January 2020. Based on the graphic novel series by Steve Niles and Damien Worm, the show weaves together elements of horror, drama, and family dynamics, offering viewers a thrilling ride through the world of monster hunters, dark secrets, and mysterious organizations. In this article, we will delve deep into the world of “October Faction,” exploring its origins, characters, themes, and impact on the genre, as well as examining its reception and cultural significance.

1. The Origins of “October Faction”

1.1. The Graphic Novel Series

“October Faction” originated as a graphic novel series published by IDW Publishing, written by Steve Niles and illustrated by Damien Worm.

• Steve Niles: Known for his work in the horror genre, particularly for co-creating “30 Days of Night,” Niles is a seasoned writer with a penchant for blending horror with complex character-driven stories. “October Faction” was another opportunity for him to explore the darker sides of humanity and the supernatural world.
• Damien Worm: Worm’s art is characterized by its dark, gothic style, which perfectly complements the eerie and unsettling tone of Niles’ writing. His illustrations bring the story’s monsters, settings, and characters to life, creating a visual experience that is both haunting and compelling.

The graphic novel series follows the lives of the Allen family—Fredrick and Deloris, who are retired monster hunters, and their teenage children, Geoff and Viv. The family returns to their hometown after the death of Fredrick’s father, and they quickly find themselves drawn back into the world of monster hunting, uncovering dark secrets about their family and themselves.

1.2. The Transition to Television

Netflix’s adaptation of “October Faction” brought the graphic novel’s story to a wider audience, expanding on its themes and characters while maintaining the core elements that made the original work so appealing.

• Development and Production: The series was developed for television by Damian Kindler, who served as the showrunner and executive producer. Kindler is known for his work on other genre series such as “Sanctuary” and “Sleepy Hollow.” His experience in blending supernatural elements with character-driven drama made him an ideal choice to helm “October Faction.”
• Casting and Filming: The show features a talented cast, including J.C. MacKenzie as Fred Allen, Tamara Taylor as Deloris Allen, Gabriel Darku as Geoff Allen, and Aurora Burghart as Viv Allen. Filming took place primarily in Ontario, Canada, which provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s eerie, small-town setting.

2. Characters and Their Complexities

2.1. The Allen Family

At the heart of “October Faction” is the Allen family, whose members each grapple with their own secrets, struggles, and relationships.

• Fred Allen (J.C. MacKenzie): Fred is a former monster hunter who, after the death of his father, returns to his hometown with his family. He is a complex character, torn between his desire to protect his family and the dark legacy of his past. His journey is one of self-discovery and reckoning with the choices he has made.
• Deloris Allen (Tamara Taylor): Deloris is Fred’s wife and fellow monster hunter. She is a strong, determined woman who is deeply committed to her family. Deloris is also haunted by her past, and as the series progresses, we see her struggle to balance her roles as a mother, wife, and warrior.
• Geoff Allen (Gabriel Darku): Geoff is the Allen’s son, a smart and perceptive teenager who is dealing with his own identity issues. He is openly gay and uses his sharp wit to navigate the challenges he faces both at home and at school. Geoff’s journey is one of empowerment as he learns more about his family’s legacy and his own place in the world.
• Viv Allen (Aurora Burghart): Viv is Geoff’s twin sister, a quiet and introspective young woman who begins to experience strange visions upon returning to her family’s hometown. As she uncovers the truth about her abilities, Viv’s character evolves from a sheltered teenager to a powerful young woman with a deep connection to the supernatural world.

2.2. Supporting Characters

“October Faction” features a rich array of supporting characters, each contributing to the show’s intricate plot and themes.

• Samuel Allen (Stephen McHattie): Fred’s father, Samuel, is a powerful and influential figure in the world of monster hunting. His death sets the events of the series in motion, and his legacy looms large over the Allen family as they navigate the challenges they face.
• Alice Harlow (Maxim Roy): Alice is a mysterious and powerful figure who becomes a central antagonist in the series. Her connection to the supernatural world and her vendetta against the Allen family make her a formidable foe.
• Maggie Allen (Wendy Crewson): Maggie is Fred’s estranged mother, whose strained relationship with her son adds another layer of complexity to the family dynamic. As the series progresses, Maggie’s own secrets and motivations are revealed, adding depth to her character.

3. Themes and Symbolism

3.1. Family and Legacy

One of the central themes of “October Faction” is the idea of family and the legacy we inherit from our ancestors.

• Inherited Burdens: The Allen family is bound by a legacy of monster hunting, a dangerous and isolating profession that has shaped their lives in profound ways. Each member of the family must grapple with the weight of this legacy, deciding whether to embrace or reject it.
• Generational Conflict: The series explores the tensions between different generations within the family, particularly the conflict between Fred and his father, Samuel. This generational conflict reflects broader themes of tradition versus progress and the struggle to reconcile one’s past with one’s present.

3.2. Identity and Self-Discovery

Identity is another key theme in “October Faction,” particularly for the younger members of the Allen family.

• Geoff’s Journey: Geoff’s journey of self-discovery is central to the series, as he navigates his identity as a gay teenager in a small, conservative town. His experiences reflect the broader struggles of LGBTQ+ youth and the importance of acceptance and self-expression.
• Viv’s Awakening: Viv’s discovery of her supernatural abilities is symbolic of her own journey toward self-awareness and empowerment. As she learns to harness her powers, Viv also comes to understand her place in the world and the responsibilities that come with her newfound abilities.

3.3. Good vs. Evil

The classic theme of good versus evil is at the heart of “October Faction,” but the series adds nuance to this age-old conflict.

• Moral Ambiguity: The show challenges the traditional black-and-white notions of good and evil, presenting characters who are morally complex and whose motivations are often driven by personal pain or trauma. This ambiguity adds depth to the story and encourages viewers to question their own perceptions of right and wrong.
• The Monster Within: The series also explores the idea that the true monsters are not always those who are visibly different or supernatural, but rather those who harbor hatred, fear, and prejudice within themselves. This theme is particularly evident in the character arcs of Fred and Deloris, who must confront their own inner demons as they battle external threats.

4. Reception and Impact

4.1. Critical Reception

“October Faction” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its blend of horror and family drama, while others criticized its pacing and character development.

• Positive Aspects: Many critics highlighted the show’s strong performances, particularly from Tamara Taylor and J.C. MacKenzie, as well as its intriguing premise and dark, atmospheric visuals. The exploration of family dynamics and LGBTQ+ representation were also noted as strengths of the series.
• Criticisms: On the other hand, some critics felt that the show struggled to balance its various plotlines and that certain elements of the story were underdeveloped. The pacing of the series was also a point of contention, with some viewers finding the show slow in parts.

4.2. Audience Reception

Despite its mixed critical reception, “October Faction” garnered a dedicated fanbase who appreciated its unique take on the supernatural genre.

• Cult Following: The series developed a cult following, particularly among fans of the graphic novel and viewers who enjoy character-driven horror and supernatural stories. The show’s diverse cast and exploration of LGBTQ+ themes also resonated with a wide audience.
• Social Media and Fandom: Fans of the show took to social media to express their love for the series, sharing fan art, theories, and discussions about the characters and plot. This online engagement helped to sustain interest in the show even after its cancellation.

4.3. Cancellation and Legacy

Unfortunately, “October Faction” was canceled by Netflix after just one season, leaving fans with unresolved storylines and unanswered questions.

• Reasons for Cancellation: While Netflix did not provide an official reason for the cancellation, it is likely that factors such as viewership numbers and production costs played a role in the decision. The show’s mixed critical reception may have also contributed to its short-lived run.
• Impact and Legacy: Despite its brief run, “October Faction” left a lasting impact on its fans and the genre. The series introduced new audiences to the world of the graphic novel and sparked discussions about the representation of LGBTQ+ characters and family dynamics in supernatural stories. Its blend of horror, drama, and dark humor also set it apart from other shows in the genre, making it a unique addition to Netflix’s original programming.

5. Conclusion

“October Faction” may have been short-lived, but it made a significant impression on the world of supernatural television. With its complex characters, rich themes, and atmospheric storytelling, the series offered a fresh take on the monster-hunting genre, blending family drama with supernatural horror in a way that resonated with many viewers. While fans may never get to see a second season, the show’s legacy lives on through its dedicated fanbase and the continued popularity of the original graphic novel. As we reflect on the impact of “October Faction,” it serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to explore the depths of human experience, even in the darkest and most supernatural of settings.