‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’ series review: Ryan Murphy’s hack job collapses into a pile of ‘female serial killer’ stereotypes
The review criticizes the new Ryan Murphy series 'Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story' for relying on tired stereotypes and a muddled narrative. It argues that the show fails to provide a nuanced take on the historical case, instead opting for a sensationalized and choppy portrayal.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing debate regarding the ethics and quality of 'true crime' adaptations in modern streaming media.
Ian Brennan’s latest instalment in the Monster series, travels back to the 19 th century to explore the Lizzie Borden case. The show opens with direct quotes from the District and Defense Attorneys involved in Lizzie Borden’s trial, which state something to the effect of: such a horrific crime is impossible for a woman to carry out. Brennan, and Ryan Murphy , who served as an Executive Producer, appear to have taken the mantle for all women to prove these theories wrong. The offense they take at the accusation that a woman may be so weak, leads them down an impatient and muddled path that ends with a caricaturish sum of all female killers.
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