James A. Garfield and His Assassin in "Death by Lightning"
Mike Makowsky spent months securing government permission to access original materials, which explains why the new Netflix limited series he created, Death by Lightning, opens with an authentic re-creation of key events.
The recently released four-part series explores the intertwined lives of James A. Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, and his assassin Charles J. Guiteau. Garfield's home in Mentor is now preserved as the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, managed by the National Park Service.
Garfield’s presidency was tragically cut short in 1881 when Guiteau took his life. The series, adapted by Makowsky from Candice Millard’s acclaimed 2011 book Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President, stars Michael Shannon as the steadfast Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as the disturbed Guiteau.
"Death by Lightning" tells the parallel stories of Garfield and Guiteau, capturing a pivotal moment in American history.
Makowsky's careful adaptation delivers a vivid portrayal of political ambition, mental illness, and the historical impact of a presidential assassination.
Author's summary: The series reveals the complex story behind President Garfield’s assassination, balancing historical detail with compelling performances and a well-researched narrative.