‘Death by Lightning’ Review: Michael Shannon Leads a Rollicking Elegy for the American Experiment
The Netflix series Death by Lightning recounts the assassination of James Garfield with a vibrant cast, sharp humor, and insightful storytelling. It offers a wild ride through a pivotal moment in American history.
Plot Overview
In the early morning hours, the recent Republican nominee for Vice President of the United States, portrayed by Nick Offerman, stumbles out of a lively bar. Wearing two hats stacked on his head and with eyes shut tight, he barely avoids walking into a wall. Unable to find a ride home on his own, he relies on the reluctant help of a supporter whom he mistakenly calls “Cousteau.”
Meanwhile, Charles Guiteau, played with intense presence by Matthew Macfadyen, has been persistently trying to catch the Vice President’s attention. He spins a chance kindness—when Arthur saved him from arrest—into an opportunity to join Arthur’s campaign.
Guiteau’s Ambitions
Inspired by James Garfield (played by Michael Shannon), the top of the Republican ticket in Chicago, Guiteau aspires to make a significant impact in the campaign. He is willing to adopt a new identity, abandoning the past marked by thefts, debts, and lies across Illinois and New York, to pursue his goal.
“Guiteau wants to work on Arthur’s campaign... He dreams of ‘making an impact’ just like his future president.”
Author's Summary
This series combines dark comedy with historical drama, vividly portraying the wild characters and complex ambitions that shaped a turbulent period in American politics.