Netflix’s latest offering, “Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story,” delves into the chilling narrative of Lizzie Borden, a woman historically accused and later acquitted of murdering her father and stepmother with an axe. Created by Ryan Murphy, this limited series explores not only the notorious murders but also a complex relationship between Lizzie and her maid, Bridget, suggesting that their bond may have played a critical role in the lead-up to the infamous events in 1892.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Borden-Murders-091626-5-541ea783d9e940de8db516dcbf4c1538.jpg)
The series commences with the brutal axe murders, portraying Lizzie, played by Ella Beatty, viciously attacking her stepmother Abby and father Andrew, portrayed by Rebecca Hall and Charlie Hunnam respectively. Following this dramatic opener, the story rewinds four months to build the tension leading up to the murders, beginning with Lizzie’s experience during a disastrous date with a potential suitor. This encounter proves humiliating, as he mocks her appearance and ultimately dismisses her despite her family’s wealth, exacerbating Lizzie’s feelings of isolation and rejection.
Abby’s disdain for Lizzie is palpable throughout the series, creating a toxic family dynamic. This animosity climaxes when Abby violently scalds the household maid, Margaret, leading to her swift departure from the Borden home. However, the arrival of Bridget, played by Vicky Krieps, brings a new energy into the house. Dressed in defiance of the era’s norms, Bridget’s brash personality stands in stark contrast to Lizzie’s restraint, offering a glimpse into their evolving relationship.
The series effectively portrays how Lizzie and Bridget’s friendship blossoms into something deeper, with Bridget’s assertive nature prompting Lizzie to find her own voice. The maid’s character is not just a servant; she is depicted as a source of empowerment for Lizzie, negotiating her own wages and even demanding to colour her hair freely—a reflection of her strong-willed spirit. As their relationship develops, Lizzie experiences a sexual awakening, guided in part by Bridget’s influence.
Bridget’s character takes on additional layers of complexity when she becomes entwined in Lizzie’s life both professionally and personally. The series also suggests that Bridget engages in dubious activities to secure a better living for herself, including propositions made to Andrew. This suggests underlying tensions and social power plays that were prevalent, though it remains unclear how much these elements strictly adhere to historical fact.
Their initial conspiratorial thoughts toward Abby and Andrew gain momentum after a series of escalating tensions. The women’s first attempt at murder unfolds in a botched plan involving contaminated oysters, resulting in the couple suffering from severe illness. Lizzie’s resentment grows as Abby’s malice becomes clearer, particularly after an act of violence against Lizzie’s cherished doves alters the course of their plan dramatically.
As the series progresses, it displays the psychological turmoil faced by both women as they prepare for the fateful day of the murders. By the time the murders take place on 4 August 1892, the audience is left grappling with the complexities of their motivations. The execution of the murders is presented with raw intensity; the portrayal of both Abby and Andrew’s deaths is graphic and designed to retain viewers’ engagement while exploring the dark aspects of the characters’ psyches.
However, historically, many aspects depicted in “Monster” diverge significantly from what is known about the actual events. Bridget, as per historical records, had only recently joined the Borden household, and there is no substantial evidence to suggest she and Lizzie shared a romantic attachment. Furthermore, the show’s depiction of Andrew as an exploitative figure towards Bridget is an exaggeration, as records indicate he was more focused on his successful business ventures than any illicit relationship with his maid.
Moreover, the representation of the aftermath of the murders contrasts sharply with documented history, particularly concerning Lizzie’s trial. In reality, Bridget became a critical witness for the prosecution, testifying at Lizzie’s trial, whereas the series presents Lizzie’s character in a more sympathetic light. Ultimately, Lizzie would be acquitted, leaving the truth remain shrouded in mystery—a narrative device that has intrigued and captivated audiences for over a century.
“Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story” thus presents not just a retelling of a historic murder but a new lens through which to examine women’s relationships, societal expectations, and the interaction between power dynamics. By creatively licensing elements of the story, Ryan Murphy aims to provoke discussion and reflection on the motivations and experiences of women navigating a patriarchal society, even amidst the bloodshed and scandal that marked this infamous case. As the series unfurls, it invites viewers to question the boundaries of truth and fiction in our interpretations of historical narratives.