“‘Death by Lightning’ Mirrors 1880s ‘West Wing’ Drama”
Netflix has debuted a new miniseries titled “Death by Lightning,” which channels the essence of 19th-century political drama. This four-part series, reminiscent of “The West Wing,” explores themes of political intrigue and betrayal in the 1880s.
Plot Overview
The story centers on President James Garfield, portrayed by Michael Shannon, who delivers powerful orations as a Congressman from Ohio. His character is depicted as both a dedicated public servant and a loving family man. In contrast, Charles Guiteau, who seeks glory at any cost, embodies the darker side of ambition.
Character Dynamics
- James Garfield: An earnest leader, grappling with the challenges of national politics.
- Charles Guiteau: Played by Matthew Macfadyen, he shows a delusional sense of grandeur and resorts to immoral acts to achieve his dreams.
- Lucretia Garfield: Portrayed by Betty Gilpin, her character evolves significantly throughout the series, influencing Garfield’s path.
Key Events and Historical Context
Garfield is initially asked to nominate a colleague at the Republican National Convention in Chicago. His inspirational speech leads to his surprising nomination as the Republican front-runner on the 36th ballot. Throughout these events, the series captures the sentiment of political ambition and the perils of personal relationships.
Supporting Cast Highlights
- Bradley Whitford: Plays Senator James Blaine, adding depth to the political backdrop.
- Nick Offerman: Takes on the role of Chester Alan Arthur, balancing humor with intensity.
Creative Team and Influence
“Death by Lightning” is created by Mike Makowsky and is based on Candice Millard’s book, “Destiny of the Republic.” Executive producers include David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, known for their work on iconic series like “Game of Thrones.”
Thematic Resonance
The series resonates with contemporary themes of arrogance and social struggle, mirroring the duality of optimism and despair found in American politics. It reflects the historical undercurrents that remain relevant today.
By showcasing characters like Guiteau, who once sang before his execution, the show draws parallels to other narratives such as the musical “Assassins.” Ultimately, “Death by Lightning” presents a captivating and thought-provoking look at a pivotal period in American history.
