Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story's premiere has the axe, but no point

The fourth season of the Netflix anthology series Monster has premiered, and while it aims to tackle the infamous Lizzie Borden case, it seems to prioritize shock value over exploring the true psychological and societal factors behind the crime. The season's first episode sets the tone for the show's approach to true crime stories, which is to sensationalize and dramatize events rather than delve into the complexities of the individual involved.

In the premiere, Lizzie Borden (played by Ella Beatty) is depicted as an innocent, sweet character who becomes the victim of familial abuse and neglect. Her stepmother Abby (Rebecca Hall) is portrayed as a cruel and unlikable character, while Lizzie's biological mother is never mentioned. The introduction of Bridget (Vicky Krieps), a free-spirited and independent character, is designed to challenge Lizzie's limited worldview and provide a platform to discuss themes of women's empowerment and identity.

However, this approach ultimately results in a predictable and superficial narrative that prioritizes shock and entertainment over meaningful exploration. Monster's handling of the Lizzie Borden case is a prime example of the show's tendency to prioritize sensationalism over substance, creating a narrative that focuses on the sensational aspects of the crime rather than the complexities of the individuals involved.