The recent Netflix release, *Monster: The Ed Gein Story*, has set an unwanted record for the series, reeling with a low Rotten Tomatoes score. Its current critic rating stands at a dismal 23%, the lowest among its peers. This stark decline reflects the series’ inability to satisfy both critics and audiences. The show, part of Ryan Murphy’s *Monster* anthology, chronicles the life of infamous criminals but has failed to garner positive reviews.
Comparison of Ratings within the *Monster* Series
For context, here is how *Monster: The Ed Gein Story* compares to other entries in the *Monster* anthology and Netflix’s true crime series:
- Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes – 100% critic score
- Conversations with a Killer: The John Wayne Gacy Tapes – 86% critic score, 83% audience score
- Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes – 58% critic score, 76% audience score
- Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story – 57% critic score, 82% audience score
- Monster: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story – 45% critic score, 58% audience score
- Monster: The Ed Gein Story – 23% critic score, 54% audience score
The Portrayal of Ed Gein
Critics have expressed that the portrayal of Ed Gein in this latest installment is problematic. The series attempts to depict his life, yet many argue it humanizes a notorious killer inappropriately. Despite Gein’s infamous acts, the show’s framing can lead to a sympathetic view due to his schizophrenia diagnosis. This raises concerns about the responsibilities of storytelling when dealing with real-life violence and mental health.
Future of the *Monster* Series
Despite the poor reception of *The Ed Gein Story*, Netflix and Ryan Murphy remain committed to the *Monster* series. Announcements have confirmed an upcoming entry titled *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story*. This installment will shift focus to a historical female murderer, known for her alleged axe murders of her father and stepmother in the late 19th century. Ella Beatty, the daughter of actors Annette Bening and Warren Beatty, will take on the role of Borden, marking her first major acting project since 2024.
As it stands, *The Ed Gein Story* is currently ranking as a top title on Netflix. However, given its performance and reception, it remains uncertain how long it will maintain this status among viewers.
