On September 18, 2024, Netflix dropped the second season of “Monsters,” a gripping crime series that delves into the chilling stories of infamous individuals. Created by Ryan Murphy, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” follows the true story of two brothers who were convicted of the brutal murder of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in 1989. The new season taps into this case’s psychological and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts.
Plot Overview
In “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” Netflix explores the complex dynamic of the Menendez family, living an extravagant lifestyle in Beverly Hills. On August 20, 1989, Lyle and Erik Menendez shocked the world when they gunned down their parents in cold blood. Initially, the brothers attempted to fabricate an alibi, claiming they had found their parents dead after returning from a movie night in Santa Monica. However, tapes from their therapist eventually led to their arrest and subsequent conviction.
The series doesn’t just recount the crime; it digs deeper into the accusations that Jose Menendez had been sexually and physically abusing the brothers for years. The defense argued that this abuse, which allegedly continued into their adulthood, drove them to commit the murders. The show focuses on the brothers’ claims and the courtroom drama that unfolded during their trials between 1993 and 1996. Despite these defense arguments, the Menendez brothers were sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.
Ryan Murphy’s Signature Storytelling
Ryan Murphy, known for his work on “American Horror Story” and “The Watcher,” brings his usual flair for blending suspense with psychological intrigue. The “Monsters” series is no different, offering viewers a deep dive into not only the crime but also the potential motivations behind it. Murphy’s direction leaves audiences questioning whether the Menendez brothers were cold-blooded murderers or victims of long-term abuse, painting a more nuanced picture of this infamous case (What’s on Netflix)(SoapCentral).
Impact and Reception
The first season of “Monsters,” which focused on Jeffrey Dahmer, was a massive success, drawing millions of viewers and sparking widespread conversations about the ethics of true crime entertainment. With the Menendez case being equally well-known, Season 2 is expected to attract a similar audience. Early reviews have praised the show’s pacing and emotional depth, with particular praise for the performances of the actors portraying Lyle and Erik.
However, like many true crime shows, “Monsters” faces criticism for potentially sensationalizing real-life tragedies. Some viewers argue that the show glorifies the perpetrators of these horrific acts, rather than focusing on the victims. In response, Murphy has maintained that the series aims to shed light on the psychological trauma that often underpins such cases (SoapCentral).
Why You Should Watch It
For fans of true crime and courtroom dramas, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” is a compelling exploration of a tragic and disturbing family dynamic. The series balances suspenseful storytelling with a compassionate look at the complexities of abuse and its potential impact on mental health. While it doesn’t justify the murders, it invites viewers to consider the emotional and psychological factors that may have contributed to this notorious crime .
