Netflix’s Assassination Drama ‘Death by Lightning’ Review
Netflix’s latest limited series is a political thriller centered on the life and assassination of James Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. Adapted from Candice Millard’s 2011 book Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President, the show tells the story of Garfield and his assassin, Charles Guiteau.
Production and Premise
Created by Mike Makowsky, known for Bad Education, and executive produced by Game of Thrones creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, the four-part series serves as both a historical tribute and a cautionary tale.
Opening Scene
The series begins in 1969 at the Army Medical Museum where workers accidentally discover a jar containing the brain of Charles J. Guiteau (played by Matthew Macfadyen), preserved on a shelf for nearly 100 years.
Flashback to 1880
The story then moves back to 1880, introducing Charles Guiteau as he finishes a jail sentence for false pretenses and evading arrest. Meanwhile, in Ohio, Civil War veteran and Congressman James Garfield (Michael Shannon) is called from his farm to the Republican National Convention in Chicago.
“Death by Lightning” opens in 1969 at the Army Medical Museum. Workers are startled when a jar tumbles out of a dusty box and rolls onto the ground. Upon analyzing it, they realize it’s the brain of Charles J. Guiteau.
Main Characters
- James Garfield – 20th President of the United States, portrayed by Michael Shannon.
- Charles Guiteau – Assassin of Garfield, portrayed by Matthew Macfadyen.
Series Significance
The show not only recounts a pivotal moment in American history but also explores themes of madness, medicine, and political violence through its detailed storytelling.
Author’s Summary
This series offers a vivid and sobering look at President James Garfield’s assassination, blending history and drama to remind viewers of the lasting impact of political violence.