“Death by Lightning” Creator Knew ‘Very Little’ About James Garfield Until He Read Candice Millard’s Book (Exclusive)

Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ Unveils Creator’s Journey into the World of James Garfield

The creator of “Death by Lightning,” Mike Makowsky, recently shared his enlightening experience delving into the life of former president James Garfield through Candice Millard’s biography, “Destiny of the Republic.” Makowsky, in an exclusive interview, revealed that he stumbled upon the book by chance on a ‘buy one, get one free’ table at Barnes & Noble and was amazed by the compelling narrative about Garfield. The Netflix series explores Garfield’s presidency and tragic assassination, bringing to light the captivating relationship between Garfield and his admirer, Charles Guiteau, his eventual assassin.

Before his encounter with Millard’s book, Makowsky admitted knowing very little about James Garfield. However, after immersing himself in the biography, he was captivated by the inspiring persona Garfield embodied. Makowsky expressed his admiration for Garfield, citing how the nation was deprived of his potential as president. The story, as portrayed in the book, offered Makowsky unexpected twists and turns, which he found intriguing and often had to fact-check due to its unbelievable nature.

As Makowsky delved deeper into Garfield’s life, he found himself fascinated by the complexity of the story and the enigmatic character of Garfield himself. The series, boasting an ensemble cast with Michael Shannon portraying Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau, aims to bring the historical events to life on screen. Makowsky’s hope is that viewers will not only be entertained by the series but also draw parallels between the past and present, as history often serves as a mirror to our current societal dynamics.

Reflecting on the essence of history, Makowsky highlighted how understanding past events can offer valuable insights into the present. He expressed his eagerness to hear viewers’ interpretations of the series and how it resonates with contemporary issues. By critically examining historical narratives, Makowsky believes that audiences can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities shaping our world today, reaffirming the timeless relevance of historical accounts in today’s context.

The adaptation of Millard’s acclaimed book into a Netflix series marks a significant milestone in showcasing the lesser-known aspects of American history. Makowsky’s creative vision, combined with the stellar performances of the cast, aims to shed light on the captivating story of James Garfield and the profound impact of his presidency. Through “Death by Lightning,” viewers are invited to embark on a compelling journey through a tumultuous period in American politics, resonating with themes that reverberate through time.

In conclusion, the fusion of historical narratives with contemporary storytelling in “Death by Lightning” embodies the transformative power of storytelling in illuminating pivotal moments in history. Makowsky’s exploration of James Garfield’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the untold stories that shape our understanding of the past and present. As the series unfolds on Netflix, audiences are encouraged to delve into the rich tapestry of American history and discover the enduring legacy of figures like James Garfield.