Review: 'Death by Lightning' Offers a Surprising Story About an Assassinated President Gone Too Soon
Netflix's four-part miniseries, based on Candice Millard's nonfiction book, reveals the little-known story of President James A. Garfield. The series introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.” While few in 2025 may recognize Charles Guiteau, Garfield’s assassin, many know Garfield as one of only four American presidents to be assassinated.
Though some presidents are less known — for example, John Tyler — and some assassins are more famous than Guiteau, the choice to focus on this story offers viewers a built-in murder mystery and a dramatic narrative. The docudrama also reflects contemporary themes including civil rights, income inequality, cronyism, and corruption.
The tragedy of Garfield’s assassination is depicted as a national loss, not just a family one. He was killed after only 200 days in office, and according to “Death by Lightning” and historical sources, he might have been a capable leader.
“Death By Lightning,” premiering Thursday on Netflix, introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.”
For the sense one gets from “Death by Lightning” and from the historical record it fairly represents, is that Garfield, killed after only 200 days in office, might have made a very good chief executive.
Key Themes in 'Death by Lightning'
- Exploration of less familiar historical figures
- Highlighting issues of civil rights and social inequality
- Insight into political corruption and cronyism
- Impact of an early presidential assassination on the nation’s trajectory
This docudrama captures a pivotal moment in American history through a nuanced and timely lens.
Author's summary: The series revives the overlooked story of President Garfield’s assassination, highlighting its lasting national impact and themes still relevant today.