True crime enthusiasts have a vast selection of programmes and films to explore, ranging from heartbreaking narratives to those that induce sleepless nights. However, one particular series stands out as a must-watch for those who dare. Released in 2022, Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story quickly rose in popularity as it dramatises the life of serial killer and cannibal Jeffrey Dahmer.
At the time of its release, it dominated conversations, and I made a concerted effort to watch it. Despite viewing it in broad daylight, my sensitive stomach could not endure the gruesome details. For much of the series, my eyes were shut as creator Ryan Murphy did not shy away from depicting the most chilling aspects of Dahmer's crimes—and rightfully so.
Now, as a TV writer with a growing fascination for true crime, I felt compelled to revisit the series. My intense curiosity about the motives and methods behind such heinous acts drove me to give it another chance. Yet again, my sensitive stomach failed me. There were scenes I simply had to avert my eyes from, ultimately leading me to turn off the show altogether.
It was episode four that proved to be the breaking point—a scene involving a decapitated head being kissed. The mere recollection sends shivers down my spine. The most terrifying aspect, however, is that these were real atrocities committed by a real serial killer.
I fully acknowledge why the series achieved such acclaim and broke records. It is an intense dramatisation that deserves its awards. It does not hold back from depicting graphic details and portraying the real-life horrors that occurred, which terrified me profoundly.
Perhaps I will attempt to watch it again, but this time with someone else present, and definitely not at night. Viewers have echoed similar sentiments. One IMDb user described it as a "red flag for highly sensitive people," stating: "Even though the story, portrayal of the main character and filming itself are on a top level, there is a major red flag for highly sensitive watchers. I couldn't sleep the whole night. The sweats, heart racing, and thoughts going in circles."
On Rotten Tomatoes, one reviewer commented: "So disturbing. So well put together. Couldn't take my eyes off of it!" Another wrote: "Super dark, but good if you can stomach it." A third added: "A cinematic masterpiece that could never be recreated. Evan Peters is a PHENOMENAL actor, as well as the ONLY person fit to portray such a character as the horrifying Jeffery Dahmer. Evan Peters' performance is absolutely terrifying, raw, bone-chilling, and perfect in every way."
A Facebook user echoed: "Most disturbing serial killer series or documentary I've ever watched," while another penned: "Very disturbing show. But Evan Peters deserves an Oscar for this portrayal. He's really really good!"
The Monster anthology series has also seen success with Monster: The Ed Gein Story and Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story.
Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story is available to stream on Netflix.
