Death by Lightning is a Netflix limited series that dramatizes one of the strangest and most tragic chapters in American political history: the assassination of President James A. Garfield. Adapted from Candice Millard's acclaimed nonfiction book Destiny of the Republic, the four-part drama was created by Mike Makowsky and executive produced by a team that includes David Benioff and D. B. Weiss of Game of Thrones fame.
Michael Shannon stars as Garfield, the reluctant, principled Ohioan swept into the presidency in 1880 almost against his will, while Matthew Macfadyen plays Charles Guiteau, the delusional, chronically failed office-seeker who came to believe he was destined to kill the president. The series braids their two lives together, tracing Garfield's improbable ascent and Guiteau's descent into fatal grandiosity, before turning to the grim aftermath in which the president's own doctors may have done more harm than the assassin's bullet. Nick Offerman, Betty Gilpin, Shea Whigham, and Bradley Whitford round out the ensemble.
Critics praised the series for its dark wit, its detailed period craft, and the performances of its two leads, with Macfadyen's twitchy, tragicomic Guiteau drawing particular attention. Both a political tragedy and a mordant character study, it revives a largely forgotten American story for a modern audience. Death by Lightning is streaming on Netflix.
"Cities of the Underworld" is a television series that explores the hidden underground spaces and structures beneath some of the world's most famous cities. The show delves into the historical and cultural significance of these hidden places, and reveals how they have played a role in shaping the cities above ground.
Each episode focuses on a different city, such as Rome, Paris, or London, and showcases the tunnels, catacombs, and other subterranean structures that exist beneath them. The show also examines the various uses that these spaces have served over the years, including as hiding places during times of war, as storage facilities for goods and supplies, and even as sites for secret societies and cults.
The series is an entertaining and informative look at the often-overlooked spaces that exist beneath our feet, and provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of some of the world's most iconic cities.
Unusual Suspects was a television series that aired on the Investigation Discovery network from 2010 to 2015. The show focused on crimes that were solved with the help of unexpected sources such as witnesses, informants, or forensic evidence. Each episode featured a different case, providing viewers with an in-depth look at the investigation process, including interviews with investigators, family members, and other key figures involved in the case.
The show's format typically followed a chronological order, beginning with the crime itself and then moving on to the investigation and subsequent arrest of the suspect. Viewers were given a glimpse into the often complex and challenging nature of police work and how investigators use a variety of techniques to solve cases. In addition to showcasing law enforcement's efforts, the show also emphasized the importance of community involvement in fighting crime.
Throughout its run, Unusual Suspects covered a wide range of crimes, from homicides and kidnappings to robberies and fraud. Many of the cases featured on the show were high-profile, with some receiving national attention. The show was well-received by audiences and critics alike for its compelling storytelling and unique approach to true crime.
"The Dark Side of the 90s" is a documentary series that explores the cultural and social aspects of the 1990s, a decade that marked a significant shift in popular culture. The series covers a range of topics, from the grunge music scene and the rise of alternative culture to the impact of technology and the internet on society.
The series provides an in-depth look at the darker side of the 90s, including the rise of drug use and addiction, the epidemic of school shootings, and the infamous O.J. Simpson trial. It also examines the impact of the AIDS crisis and the fear and stigma associated with the disease at the time.
Throughout the series, viewers are taken on a journey through the 90s, exploring the highs and lows of a decade that continues to shape our world today. With interviews from experts and individuals who lived through the era, "The Dark Side of the 90s" offers a thought-provoking look at one of the most influential decades in modern history.
"The Food That Built America" is a TV series that tells the story of the rise of the food industry in the United States. It highlights the role of entrepreneurs and innovators in creating some of the most iconic American food brands, such as Coca-Cola, Hershey's, and McDonald's.
The show covers the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, a time when the American food industry was rapidly expanding and transforming. Viewers can see how industry leaders competed with each other to create new products, market them effectively, and ultimately become household names.
The show also explores how the food industry impacted American culture and society. It reveals the ways in which food and advertising played a significant role in shaping American identity and lifestyle. Overall, "The Food That Built America" provides an informative and entertaining look into the history of the American food industry and its lasting impact on the nation.
Court Cam is a television program that showcases real-life courtroom footage from across the United States. The show features footage from trials, hearings, and other legal proceedings, providing viewers with a glimpse into the American justice system. The program also includes interviews with legal experts and witnesses to provide context and analysis of the cases.
Each episode of Court Cam focuses on a particular case or theme, such as high-profile trials, dramatic moments in the courtroom, or cases with unusual circumstances. The program aims to educate viewers about the legal process and promote transparency in the justice system. It also provides an opportunity for viewers to see how judges, lawyers, and defendants behave in court.
Court Cam has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the justice system and its ability to educate viewers about the legal process. However, some critics have raised concerns about the show's potential impact on the privacy and rights of those involved in the cases shown. Despite these concerns, Court Cam continues to air on television and has gained a following among viewers interested in the justice system.
"Deadly Women" is a television series that airs on the Investigation Discovery network. The show explores real-life cases of women who have committed murder or other violent crimes. The series uses interviews, reenactments, and archival footage to tell the stories of these women and the crimes they committed.
Each episode focuses on three cases that share a common theme, such as women who kill for money or women who kill their partners. The show also includes expert commentary from criminologists, forensic psychologists, and other professionals who offer insights into the motivations and psychology behind these crimes.
"Deadly Women" has been on the air since 2005 and has aired over 200 episodes. The show has been praised for its in-depth exploration of the crimes and its balanced approach to telling the stories of both the victims and the perpetrators. However, it has also faced criticism for sensationalizing the crimes and perpetuating stereotypes about women and violence.
Homicide Hunter is a true-crime television series that focuses on the career of retired Colorado Springs police detective Joseph Kenda. The show depicts his experiences solving some of the most complex homicide cases during his 23 years in law enforcement. It also showcases his analytical and investigative skills in cracking down on criminals.
Each episode of Homicide Hunter follows a specific case that Kenda worked on during his career. Kenda narrates the show, recounting his investigation and the steps he took to solve the crime. The show features interviews with witnesses, victims’ families, and Kenda’s colleagues who provide additional insight into the case. The show’s popularity has led to its syndication on multiple networks and platforms.
Homicide Hunter stands out from other true-crime shows due to Kenda’s personality and the way he presents the cases. Kenda is known for his dry wit and blunt personality, which adds a unique tone to the show. Additionally, his attention to detail and ability to solve complex cases has earned him the nickname of “the detective of detectives”. Overall, Homicide Hunter provides an engaging and educational look into the world of criminal investigation through the eyes of one of its most accomplished detectives.