James A. Garfield, His Assassin, Front and Center in “Death by Lightning”
Mike Makowsky spent several months obtaining special government permission to view authentic historical materials. His dedication set the stage for the new Netflix limited series he created, Death by Lightning, which opens with a vivid re-creation of Charles J. Guiteau’s fateful act.
A Story of Parallel Lives
The four-part series reveals the intertwined destinies of James A. Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, and Charles J. Guiteau, the man who assassinated him in 1881. Garfield’s leadership was abruptly cut short, and today his former home in Mentor, Ohio, stands as the James A. Garfield National Historic Site managed by the National Park Service.
From Page to Screen
Makowsky adapted the series from Candice Millard’s acclaimed 2011 book, Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President. The production stars Michael Shannon as the steadfast Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as the unstable Guiteau.
“Death by Lightning” captures both the brilliance and tragedy bound within Garfield’s brief presidency and Guiteau’s descent into infamy.
Author’s Summary
The series transforms a pivotal moment in American history into a compelling study of idealism, madness, and fate, brought to life through powerful performances and historical depth.