Review: "Death by Lightning" Offers a Surprising Story About an Assassinated President Gone Too Soon
The Netflix four-part miniseries, inspired by Candice Millard’s nonfiction book, brings to light the lesser-known story of President James A. Garfield. Narrated by an automated voice, the series aims to retell a nearly forgotten moment in American history.
“Death by Lightning,” premiering Thursday on Netflix, introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.”
By 2025, few may remember the name Charles Guiteau, Garfield’s assassin, yet Garfield himself remains notable as one of only four U.S. presidents to be assassinated. The show’s creators deftly balance education and drama, offering a fresh look at overlooked figures and the turbulent politics of their time.
In exploring Garfield’s short-lived presidency, which ended after just 200 days, the series delves into enduring topics such as civil rights, political corruption, and economic inequality. These themes resonate strongly in today’s world, making the narrative feel both historical and timely.
Ultimately, “Death by Lightning” remains not only a historical retelling but also a cautionary story about ambition, integrity, and loss within a deeply divided nation.
Author’s Summary
This powerful miniseries reexamines the brief, tragic leadership of James A. Garfield, turning a nearly forgotten history into a resonant reflection on justice and corruption.
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