Review: 'Death by Lightning' offers a surprising story about an assassinated president gone too soon

Review: 'Death by Lightning' unveils a surprising presidential assassination story

Netflix's four-part miniseries, adapted from Candice Millard's nonfiction book, explores the little-known tale of President James A. Garfield. The series introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.” Although the assassin Charles Guiteau is mostly unknown in 2025, James A. Garfield remains recognizable as one of just four American presidents who were assassinated.

While some presidents like John Tyler are less remembered and some assassins are more famous than Guiteau, this docudrama chooses a narrative that surprises viewers and centers around a murder. The story resonates with modern issues such as civil rights, income inequality, cronyism, and corruption.

“Death By Lightning,” premiering Thursday on Netflix, introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.”

The Garfield story is highly dramatic—a national tragedy that extends beyond his family. Garfield, who died after just 200 days in office, is suggested to have had the potential to be an excellent leader.

“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 and Impact

This series offers an insightful perspective on a forgotten chapter of American history, connecting past struggles with enduring societal issues.

Author's summary: The miniseries "Death by Lightning" sheds light on President Garfield's overlooked assassination and its lasting impact on America, weaving history with themes relevant today.

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Los Angeles Times Los Angeles Times — 2025-11-06

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