How Netflix's 'Monster' Turns Lizzie Borden Into a Tragic Comedy

From Killer to Character

When we think of Lizzie Borden, we usually conjure up images of an axe-wielding monster who took her father and stepmother's lives in 1892. But in Netflix's Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, the infamous crime becomes a deeply human journey, one that's both absurd and emotionally resonant.

“I understand this person,” says Ella Beatty, who plays Lizzie in the four-part limited series. “I felt very connected to the character immediately.”

This isn't just about historical reenactment or gory retellings; it's a psychological portrait that challenges viewers to reconsider what makes someone monstrous.

The Art of the Absurd

It's a far cry from the gritty realism of The Ed Gein Story, where Charlie Hunnam portrayed a serial killer with chilling authenticity. In contrast, Lizzie Borden opts for something more playful—though not without its own brutal undercurrents.

“It felt like there was much more license for a bonkers absurdity that felt like it was on the page and that I was surprised by and really excited about,” Hunnam explains. “I thought there was a complexity and a tragedy and a nastiness and a vulnerability and all of the things that you look for that are true of all of us.”

Reimagining the Past

As we've seen in recent years, entertainment has been taking a more nuanced approach to true crime narratives. Monster is no exception—it takes its cues from historical records but gives itself room to imagine, to empathize, and even to laugh.

The series doesn't shy away from the darkness—Lizzie's actions are portrayed with unflinching honesty—but it does offer a more compassionate lens through which to view them. Beatty, herself, brings depth and humanity to what could have been a one-dimensional villain.

A Character Reborn

Beatty describes her journey into the role as an immediate emotional connection: “I remember making the audition tape and thinking, 'I understand this person.'” It's a testament to the complexity of the character she portrays. Lizzie isn't simply a monster; she's a young woman grappling with isolation, unfulfilled desires, and a rigid social structure that leaves her no room for growth.

Empathy in the Face of Horror

This approach allows for empathy to bloom—even in the most unsettling circumstances. When we see Lizzie's evolution from naive girl to someone who understands her own capacity for violence, it becomes clear that she's not inherently evil. She's shaped by the world around her.

“Nothing in this 'Monster' world is straightforward,” says Rebecca Hall, who plays Abby Borden. “The exercise of the show is really about how monsters aren't born, they're created.”

Hall's character embodies the societal pressures and expectations that contribute to Lizzie's descent into darkness. The series asks us not to judge but to understand.

Comedy as a Tool for Humanity

One of the most refreshing aspects of this season is its embrace of comedy without undermining the gravity of the story. The tone shifts seamlessly between moments of levity and heart-wrenching introspection, allowing viewers to process Lizzie's actions within a framework that's emotionally engaging rather than simply shocking.

The result? A nuanced, compelling narrative that refuses to reduce its protagonist to a simple villain or victim. It's a rare feat in true crime storytelling—and one that sets Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story apart from the crowd.

What's Next?

With its blend of historical authenticity, psychological depth, and bold storytelling choices, Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story offers a compelling new take on a well-known case. It's not just about the ax—it's about the person wielding it.

As we continue to explore how true crime can evolve beyond sensationalism, shows like this remind us that beneath every shocking act lies a story worth telling. And in this instance, that story is beautifully, tragically, and hilariously told.