Death by Lightning Review: A Gripping Look at a Forgotten Presidential Assassination
Death by Lightning, a Netflix miniseries, explores the largely overlooked assassination of the 20th U.S. President, James A. Garfield. The series features compelling performances by Matthew Macfadyen and Michael Shannon, bringing to life a significant yet neglected moment in American history.
American politics remain deeply divisive and ever-present. In these challenging times, many turn to history for cautionary tales and lessons applicable to today. Hollywood, fascinated by U.S. history and its presidents, often portrays infamous episodes such as the assassinations of Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy. These events are widely recognized and feel particularly relevant amid rising political violence in the U.S.
However, Garfield's assassination has faded from public memory. Netflix and writer Mike Makowsky of Bad Education aim to correct this with Death by Lightning.
A Captivating Portrayal of a Bygone Political Era
The show offers a detailed look at this historic event, though its tone occasionally feels overly playful. Despite this, it remains an engaging narrative with rich characters and strong acting.
"Death by Lightning is a story of two men, namely the 20th President of the United States and the man who shot him."
Hollywood’s Enduring Fascination with Presidential History
- Historical assassinations like Lincoln’s and Kennedy’s have been widely depicted in film and TV.
- These stories resonate due to their lasting impact and current political relevance.
- Garfield’s assassination, in contrast, has been largely forgotten until now.
Netflix's Ambition to Revisit History
By focusing on Garfield’s assassination, Death by Lightning tries to shed light on a forgotten chapter of American politics, making it accessible and engaging for today’s viewers.
Author’s summary: Netflix’s Death by Lightning revives the forgotten story of President Garfield’s assassination with strong performances, offering a gripping, fresh perspective on a pivotal historical event.