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.
"Tiger" is a two-part documentary miniseries about the famous golfer Tiger Woods. The show was released in January 2021 and is available to watch on the streaming service HBO Max. It covers Woods' life and career, from his childhood as a golfing prodigy to his rise to fame and numerous victories on the course, as well as his personal struggles and controversies.
The series features interviews with many people who know or have worked with Tiger, including his former caddie and coaches, as well as journalists who covered his career. It also includes archival footage of Woods' tournaments and appearances over the years, providing a comprehensive and intimate look at his life both on and off the golf course.
Overall, "Tiger" offers a detailed and nuanced look at the highs and lows of Tiger's career and personal life. It explores his incredible talent and determination as a golfer, as well as the complex factors that contributed to his personal struggles and controversies. For fans of golf, sports, or celebrity documentaries, "Tiger" is a must-watch.
"What Happened, Brittany Murphy?" is a documentary series that explores the life and death of the late actress and the involvement of her husband in her untimely demise. The show delves into mature themes such as unhealthy relationships, neglect of biological children, fraudulent schemes targeting women, substance abuse, eating disorders, and even allegations of murder. There are instances of profanity and scenes that depict smoking and drinking. Additionally, the series contains numerous film clips and logos of different blogs.
The series focuses on shedding light on the complex and troubled life of the actress, Brittany Murphy, and the possible factors that contributed to her death. It discusses the dynamics of her relationships, including the one she had with her husband, who is alleged to have played a role in her passing. The documentary also touches on Murphy's struggles with addiction and eating disorders, which may have contributed to her ill-health.
While the series can be emotionally challenging to watch, it provides an in-depth look into the life of a beloved actress who left this world too soon. It is essential to note that the show deals with serious issues and may not be suitable for everyone. Viewer discretion is advised.
"Rome" is an American-British historical drama series that premiered on HBO in 2005. The show is set in ancient Rome during the reign of Julius Caesar and follows the lives of two soldiers, Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo, as they navigate the political and social turmoil of the time. The show explores themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal, as well as the daily lives of ordinary citizens and soldiers in ancient Rome.
The show features a large and impressive cast, including Kevin McKidd and Ray Stevenson as Vorenus and Pullo, respectively, and Ciarán Hinds as Julius Caesar. The show's attention to historical detail and accuracy has been praised, with many experts noting its depiction of the complexities of life in ancient Rome. The show was also noted for its use of modern themes and storytelling techniques to make the story more accessible to contemporary audiences.
"Rome" was critically acclaimed and won multiple awards during its two-season run. Despite its success, the show was canceled after its second season due to high production costs. The show has since gained a cult following and is considered one of the best historical dramas of all time. Fans have continued to campaign for a revival of the series or a feature film to conclude the storylines left unresolved by the show's premature cancellation.
"Gunpowder" is a television miniseries that premiered on BBC One in 2017. The show is a historical drama based on the true story of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, in which a group of English Catholics attempted to assassinate King James I by blowing up the House of Lords during the State Opening of Parliament. The show explores the motivations and actions of the plotters and the government's response to the plot.
The show features an impressive cast, including Kit Harington, who also serves as an executive producer, as Robert Catesby, the mastermind behind the plot. The show depicts the planning and execution of the plot, as well as the government's efforts to uncover and thwart the plot. The series also explores themes of religious persecution, loyalty, and betrayal.
"Gunpowder" was praised for its strong performances, atmospheric cinematography, and attention to historical detail. The show was also noted for its realistic and graphic depictions of violence and torture. The series received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its accuracy and authenticity, while others criticized its slow pace and lack of character development.
"Catherine the Great" is a miniseries that premiered on HBO in 2019. It is a historical drama that tells the story of Catherine II, also known as Catherine the Great, who was the Empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796. The series explores Catherine's rise to power and her tumultuous relationship with her husband, Emperor Peter III.
The show is set in 18th-century Russia and features stunning costumes and elaborate sets that transport viewers back in time. The series also includes political intrigue, romantic entanglements, and battles for power among the royal court. The show explores themes of feminism, power, and love, as Catherine navigates the challenges of ruling a vast and complex empire.
The show was praised for its strong writing, excellent performances, and attention to historical detail. The lead role of Catherine was played by Helen Mirren, who received critical acclaim for her portrayal of the powerful and complex empress. The show was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards and was praised for its portrayal of a female leader in a male-dominated world.
Gentleman Jack is a British television series that premiered in 2019. The show is based on the real-life diaries of Anne Lister, a wealthy landowner and lesbian who lived in the early 19th century. The series explores Anne's life, her relationships with other women, and her struggle to be accepted in a society that was hostile to LGBTQ+ people.
The show is set in West Yorkshire, England, and the production design and costumes are meticulously researched to accurately reflect the time period. The series stars Suranne Jones as Anne Lister, and she gives a powerful performance that captures the complexity and wit of the historical figure. The show also features a diverse cast, including actors of color and LGBTQ+ actors.
Gentleman Jack has been praised for its historical accuracy, strong performances, and sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues. The show has been renewed for a second season, and fans are eagerly anticipating the continuation of Anne Lister's story.
