On Sept.19, a documentary called Monsters came out on Netflix, a show probing the lives of the Menendez brothers, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1989. This true crime story remains one of the most known and has interested people for generations. 

Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, the creators of Dahmer, Monsters was a highly anticipated release, and I was extremely excited to watch this show. I had spent a couple of days watching all nine episodes of the show and while I did think it was really well done and entertaining to watch, it was also upsetting. 

I have known about this case, like most true crime watchers for years. So, I know a lot of the backstory on the case, and I have watched all of the trials. In the show, different events were being portrayed not accurately to how it actually happened. I tried to ignore those things when watching because as I said before, it was entertaining. However, when I finished the show and went to go search up other people’s reactions to the show, I realized a lot of people felt the same way I did. 

People were criticizing the producer Ryan Murphy for portraying the boys’ story completely wrong and making them seem like bad people. Both boys have released statements following the shows coming out and are both upset by this and are urging people to not watch it. I thought the show was really well done, but I lost a lot of respect and appreciation for it when I heard how inaccurate it was.

Some students around Central have also watched the show. Students have different opinions on whether the documentary should have been made. 

“I think it’s really important that they make a documentary on their story,” said Emeline Mcclenahan, senior. 

However, some students were a little against even beginning to watch the documentary. 

“I think it seems interesting, but I don’t know if I’m going to watch it because it seems like a disturbing story to enjoy,” said Lily Videbek, senior. 

There has been backlash coming out from the documentary because of the accuracy in relation to the facts of the case. Some people have even proposed taking the show off of Netflix, we asked students whether they thought the show should be taken down. 

“People having journalism takes and ideas and they should never be silenced,” said Christy O’Malley, junior. 

Although there is a lot of controversy around the show, I highly suggest you watch it because it’s very interesting and keeps you hooked. However, before you watch it, educate yourself on the fact that this is not a very accurate interpretation of what really happened. I overall rate this show a 8.6/10. 

To watch Monsters click here.