monsters ed gein review

"Monster: The Ed Gein Story" (2025) is a TV series that dramatizes the life and crimes of Ed Gein, one of America's most infamous serial killers known for inspiring famous horror characters like Norman Bates and Leatherface. The show, created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, has received mixed to negative reviews for its graphic and often unfocused portrayal. Critics point out the series' ambitious attempt to link Gein's story to broader cultural impacts and serial killer mythologies but find it inconsistent and shallow in character development. Charlie Hunnam's portrayal of Gein as a soft-spoken, disturbed man is notable but criticized as unconvincing. The show indulges heavily in graphic and grotesque imagery, often bordering on sensationalism, which some reviewers see as gratuitous rather than insightful. The narrative is said to frequently mix fact and rumor, dramatizing questionable elements about Gein's life and crimes, including his relationships and mental health struggles. While attempts to explore Gein's cultural legacy and influences on horror motifs are present, they are considered superficial and underdeveloped. Overall, the series is described as visually intense but narratively disjointed, with a tone that oscillates between serious and campy, leaving a challenging viewing experience. In summary, "Monster: The Ed Gein Story" is a controversial and provocative production that some horror and true crime fans may find compelling for its boldness, but many critics view it as unfocused, excessively graphic, and lacking depth in its portrayal of Gein and his impact.