The recent release of Monster: The Ed Gein Story on Netflix has drawn significant attention from true crime enthusiasts, exploring the eerie life of Ed Gein, a figure notorious for his heinous actions. This portrayal, featuring Charlie Hunnam from Sons of Anarchy, revives the legacy of a man whose gruesome deeds inspired some of the most infamous characters in horror fiction. Set against the backdrop of a rural Wisconsin farm, this eight-episode series examines the complex psyche of Gein and the dark influences that shaped his life.
From a troubled upbringing to a life of horror
Ed Gein’s story begins in the isolated landscapes of Plainfield, Wisconsin, where he was raised by a zealous mother, Augusta. Her teachings instilled in Ed a profound fear and disdain for women, whom she viewed as inherently sinful. The absence of his father and the mysterious death of his older brother left Ed in emotional turmoil, with the series suggesting that his brother’s tragic demise was a direct consequence of Ed’s actions. This formative period set the stage for his eventual descent into madness.
As the narrative unfolds, Gein’s obsession with death becomes apparent. The series captures his disturbing fascination with grave robbing—an act that began as morbid curiosity and evolved into a grotesque hobby. The first episode provides insights into his twisted psyche, illustrating his unhealthy attachment to his mother and the lengths he would go to maintain that bond. Following Augusta’s death, Ed’s mental state deteriorated further as he kept her decaying body in their home, engaging in delusions of a shared life.
Intertwining lives and the birth of horror icons
The show artfully juxtaposes Ed Gein’s life with the atrocities committed during World War II, particularly through the character of Ilse Koch, a war criminal infamous for her grotesque use of human skin. This parallel reveals how Gein drew inspiration from such horrific tales, fueling his depravity. As the series progresses, we witness Ed’s descent into violence, culminating in the chilling disappearance of Evelyn Hartley, a teenager who vanished in the 1950s.
A fictional relationship between Ed and a young woman named Adeline Watkins, portrayed by Suzanna Son, adds depth to the narrative. While historical accounts of their romance lack credibility, this subplot provides insight into Gein’s disturbed psyche and the impact of his actions on those around him.
The horrifying discovery and media frenzy
As the plot thickens, Ed’s final act of violence against Bernice Worden, a local hardware store owner, leads to a shocking revelation. The police uncover a house filled with unimaginable horrors—masks made of human skin and other grotesque artifacts. Worden’s decapitated body is found in a harrowing scene that underscores the depths of Gein’s madness.
The media frenzy that ensues after Gein’s arrest highlights the sensational nature of his crimes. Although investigators speculated that he may have killed as many as 200 people, Ed confessed to only two murders. The remaining bodies were exhumed from graves, showcasing a morbid hobby that spiraled out of control.
Life behind bars and a twisted legacy
Following his capture, Ed Gein was deemed unfit for trial and committed to a psychiatric hospital, where he was diagnosed with schizophrenia. During his time in the institution, he found solace in hobbies like rug tufting and operating a ham radio, which connected him to the outside world. His interactions with fellow inmates, including a fictionalized version of Ilse Koch, offer a haunting glimpse into his psyche as he navigates the consequences of his past.
As the series concludes, viewers witness Ed’s final days, filled with delusions of grandeur as he imagines aiding the FBI in their search for other serial killers. The narrative takes a surreal turn, with Ed surrounded by figures inspired by his legacy, including Ed Kemper and Ted Bundy. In a poignant moment, Adeline vows to continue his legacy, but Ed’s plea for her not to reveals a flicker of remorse.
The haunting legacy of Ed Gein
The closing scene of Monster: The Ed Gein Story features a macabre twist, with teenagers stealing Gein’s gravestone, only to be confronted by the spectral figures of horror icons that he inspired. While the series blends fact and fiction, it encapsulates the disturbing legacy of Ed Gein—a man who shaped the landscape of horror and serves as a reminder of the darkness within humanity. The story prompts reflection on the nature of evil and the impact of obsession, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.