‘Death by Lightning’ Review
Death by Lightning is a four-part series about James Garfield, featuring Michael Shannon, Matthew Macfadyen, Betty Gilpin, and Nick Offerman. Executive producers include Weiss. The show explores political violence through assassination attempts and their troubled perpetrators, paralleling the darker side of the American Dream.
“Like Sondheim’s Assassins and last year’s Manhunt, the four-episode Death by Lightning is an exploration of political violence that attempts to situate assassination attempts, and their unwell perpetrators, as rot adjacent to the nobler aspirations of the American Dream.”
The series is based on Candice Millard’s book Destiny of the Republic and is created by Mike Makowsky, who navigates this provocative and complex subject with relative confidence. Although the pacing feels slightly rushed, especially after nearly three episodes introducing Matthew Macfadyen’s portrayal of Charles J., the narrative remains mostly gripping.
“Honestly, not to give Netflix too much credit for artistic integrity, but I’m a little amazed that Death by Lightning is airing at all.”
Fans of Stephen Sondheim’s work should be warned: prolonged viewing might trigger spontaneous singing of Assassins. Those sensitive to this musical or related works like Sweeney Todd or Company should take caution.
### Author's SummaryThis political thriller blends historical drama with an uneasy look at assassination as a dark reflection of American ideals, delivering a compelling yet uneven viewing experience.