Unveiling the Shadows: Monster: The Ed Gein Story Takes Audiences And Critics By Storm!

Monster: The Ed Gein Story has taken the streaming world by storm since its debut on Netflix on October 3, 2025.

This latest series from Ryan Murphy’s anthology dives deep into the chilling true crime tale of Ed Gein, the Wisconsin recluse whose gruesome acts shocked the nation in the 1950s.

With reviews pouring in from critics and viewers alike, the series has sparked a mix of fascination and controversy, making it a hot topic just days after its release.

What Are Critics Saying About the Series?

Critics have offered a range of opinions on Monster: The Ed Gein Story. Rotten Tomatoes aggregates a 58% approval rating based on 45 reviews as of October 5, 2025, labeling it a mixed bag.

The Guardian’s review on October 3, 2025, calls it “utterly devoid of morality,” criticizing its sensationalism and lack of depth in exploring Gein’s psyche.

Conversely, Variety praises Charlie Hunnam’s performance as Gein, noting on October 4, 2025, that his portrayal adds a layer of humanity to the character.

The series spans eight episodes, each around 50 minutes, and focuses on Gein’s crimes alongside his troubled upbringing.

Some reviewers, like those at The Hollywood Reporter on October 3, 2025, appreciate the visual storytelling but find the narrative disjointed, suggesting it leans too heavily on shock value.

How Have Viewers Reacted to the Show?

Viewer reactions to Monster: The Ed Gein Story have been equally divided. On IMDb, the series holds a 6.8/10 rating from over 2,000 user votes as of October 5, 2025, reflecting a polarized audience.

Social media platforms like X show fans praising Hunnam’s transformation, with one user on October 4, 2025, calling it “unbelievable” how he embodied Gein.

Others, however, express discomfort with the graphic content, with a Reddit thread on r/truecrime from October 3, 2025, debating whether the series glorifies rather than condemns the killer.

The show’s depiction of Gein’s mother, played by a yet-to-be-named actress, has also drawn attention. Viewers note her influence as a key theme, aligning with historical accounts from Harold Schechter’s book Deviant, which inspired the series, as cited in Wikipedia’s overview updated October 4, 2025.

What Sets the Production Apart?

Production elements of Monster: The Ed Gein Story have caught the eye of reviewers. The series was filmed over six months in Vancouver, Canada, with a budget estimated at $20 million, according to Deadline’s report on September 15, 2025.

The cinematography, featuring dark, moody tones, has been highlighted by IndieWire on October 3, 2025, as a strength, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.

Ryan Murphy serves as creator and executive producer, with Carl Franklin directing multiple episodes, as noted in Netflix’s press release on October 1, 2025.

The score, composed by Mac Quayle, adds a haunting backdrop, earning praise for its tension-building, per a Soundtrack.Net review on October 4, 2025.

Is the Controversy Justified?

The controversy surrounding Monster: The Ed Gein Story stems from its graphic portrayal of real events.

The Guardian argues it panders to basest instincts, while The Indian Express on October 3, 2025, suggests the artistic license taken with Gein’s story feels unnecessary and tedious.

However, defenders like Collider on October 4, 2025, argue it’s a bold take on true crime, pushing boundaries in Murphy’s signature style.

Historical accuracy is debated, with some scenes diverging from documented facts, such as Gein’s arrest timeline, per FBI records cited in Wikipedia.

This has led to accusations of sensationalism, though the series does include a disclaimer about dramatization, as seen in the opening credits.

Some Closing Thoughts

Monster: The Ed Gein Story has ignited a fascinating debate, blending praise for its performances with criticism of its approach.

As viewers continue to weigh in, the series stands as a polarizing yet compelling addition to true crime storytelling.

Whether it’s seen as a masterpiece or a misstep, its impact is undeniable, leaving room for reflection as the conversation evolves.

So, what did you think of Monster: The Ed Gein Story? Let us know in the comments section down below.