Death by Lightning
A Netflix Series / Bighead Littlehead
President James Garfield (Michael Shannon) emerges as a significant historical figure whose life story embodies the American Dream in this scripted series, which highlights his rise from poverty to the presidency and his tragic assassination just 119 days into his term. The narrative contrasts Garfield with his assassin, Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), exploring themes of political violence, mental illness, and societal rejection, ultimately emphasizing Garfield’s legacy in civil service reform and the ongoing relevance of his story in today’s political climate.
PRIMARY PRODUCTION CREDITS
Creator: Mike Makowsky. Executive Producers: Mike Makowsky, David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, Bernadette Caulfield, Matt Ross. Co-Executive Producers: Mark Taylor, Matthew Macfadyen, Michael Shannon, Duncan Muggoch. Producers: Olly Robinson, Hameed Shaukat. Director: Matt Ross. Writer: Mike Makowsky. Editors: Joseph Krings, ACE, Anna Hauger, ACE, Michael Ruscio, ACE, Joe Leonard, ACE. Talent: Matthew Macfadyen, Michael Shannon, Betty Gilpin, Shea Whigham, Bradley Whitford, Nick Offerman. Cinematography: Adriano Goldman, ASC, BSC, ABC. Sound/Music: Ramin Djawadi, Tim Kimmel, MPSE, Lindsey Alvarez, CAS, Mathew Waters, CAS. Design and Technical Staff: Gemma Jackson.