BLUF—The new season of Netflix’s “Monster” centers on Ed Gein. It explores his complex character and examines the cultural implications of his actions, accompanied by creative insights from the show’s production team.
Overview of the New Season
The third season of “Monster” on Netflix features Ed Gein, played by Charlie Hunnam. The storyline weaves together Gein’s life, his relationships, and the horror films inspired by his actions, including “Psycho” and “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.”
Showrunners Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan oversee this season, which features direction by Max Winkler, a seasoned collaborator. Winkler’s insights reveal how the show’s themes were conceptualized, including the question of who the “monster” truly is in society.
Creative Challenges and Direction
Winkler discusses how he worked closely with cinematographer Michael Bauman to visually connect the show’s various themes and narratives. They aimed to depict Gein’s life authentically while also referencing Hollywood’s portrayal of similar characters.
Specific creative decisions, such as redoing the iconic “Psycho” shower scene, were made to highlight the difference between the cinematic portrayal of horror and its real-world impact.
Emotional and Physical Challenges in Production
The actors faced intense emotional scenes and physical hardships during filming. Extreme cold weather conditions added to the challenges, but a sudden snowfall helped to achieve the desired look for some scenes.
Winkler shared that the finale involved long shooting hours, culminating in an emotionally charged moment that resonated deeply with the cast and crew. The focus on empathy throughout their storytelling highlighted the complexity of characters like Ed Gein.
