Out of all the presidents in American history, you’ll be hard pressed to remember James A. Garfield. That’s because the man barely made it past six months before he was assassinated. Perhaps it’s because of this that there aren’t many expectations for this historical limited series, other than period sets and costumes, which is done well. But Death by Lightning goes beyond just documenting the guy’s life, as well as the life of his murderer. Instead, the series delves into the ways both men focused on their legacy, for better or worse, pushing the wheel to bring the changes they have fought for, but also prematurely ending their potential impact on the nation. Death by Lightning is fascinating work, one that turns this forgotten president into an important warning for today’s changemakers.
"Perhaps fittingly for a show about a bunch of forgotten names, “Death by Lightning” is a delightful showcase for undersung character actors."
— Inkoo Kang
"Despite its dubious conclusion regarding the American experiment, the practitioners are realized with such vivacity and the goal glimpsed with such a warm glow, it’s hard not to want to start the whole thing over and try again."
— Ben Travers
The story of James Garfield, who rose from obscurity to become America's 20th President — and Charles Guiteau, the man who assassinated him.
WGA
1 nomination
