Upon noticing Monsters, a TV series released on Sept. 19, I initially expected it to be a series similar to any other, describing the cruel, heinous crimes of a killer and explaining how they were caught. However, this series was a refreshing surprise, delving deep into the personal lives of Erik and Lyle Menendez.
Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story stars Nicholas Chavez and Cooper Koch as Lyle and Erik, two brothers convicted of brutally murdering their parents: entertainment executive and millionaire Jose Menendez (Javier Bardem) and his wife, Marie Louise “Kitty” Menendez (Chloe Sevingy).
This TV series dramatizes the 1989 murders of Jose and Kitty Menendez. The show dives deep into the Menendez family, highlighting their complex family life, particularly the alleged abuse and mistreatment suffered by the brothers at the hands of their father. The discussion of such a heavy topic provides insight into the intimate moments of the brother’s lives and the complicated relationship with their parents.
While most of the series was accurate and just as dramatic as the events that allegedly transpired in 1989, the show was not completely accurate at times, as events were blown out of proportion. After watching several documentaries after my viewing of Monsters, it was not difficult to tell the places in which the show went slightly off.
According to the real Erik Menendez, the characters of his parents, Kitty and Jose were not depicted accurately, calling the portrayals “vile” and “appalling.”
However, the acting made up for the inaccuracies. Chavez gave an outstanding, emotional performance that wrenched the hearts of those who watched. Compared to other shows and movies he has acted in, this performance was incomparable. Furthermore, Koch’s interpretation of Erik illustrated his emotional turmoil and great sensitivity.
As someone well-versed in true crime shows and documentaries, Monsters was a pleasant surprise that added a deeply emotional aspect to the infamous murder case, leaving me to question whether the true monsters were the brothers or the parents.
Following the release of this show, the imprisoned Menendez brothers found their way back to national screens. After twenty eight years, the case reopened due to the popularity of the series as well as new evidence that surfaced following the release, giving the brothers a second chance at freedom.
Overall, Monsters was a 4.6/5, a fascinating and refreshing interpretation on the lives of the Menendez brothers. It encouraged me, and evidently the justice system, to take into account both sides of the story, especially when it comes to those who suffer traumatic pasts.
