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You're probably familiar with the Hitchcock classic, the iconic thriller, and the horror staple. Perhaps you've also explored the original novels that served as the basis for the first two films. Now prepare to encounter the individual who inspired the Bates Motel owner, Buffalo Bill, and the chainsaw-wielding villain. The one and only Ed Gein!

The first two seasons of the series in question focused on Jeffrey Dahmer – a name with strong recognition. Then came the sibling duo – a somewhat specialized case for enthusiasts of the genre. Attention now shifts to the Plainfield Ghoul. Although he doesn't possess the household name status of other notorious killers, and only killed two people, his postmortem violations and gruesome creativity with the deceased have left a lasting mark. Even now, any film or show featuring mutilated bodies, flayed skin, or skin-based artifacts likely draws inspiration to Gein's exploits from over 70 years ago.

A Tone of Flippancy

Do I sound flippant? It's clearly the deliberate approach of the creators. It's uncommon to witness a drama that dwells so eagerly on the worst depredations an individual – and humanity – can commit. This includes a significant plotline devoted to the horrors of the Third Reich, presented with little to no justification.

Structural and Stylistic Strengths

In terms of construction and style, the show is impressive. The pacing is flawless, and the clever interweaving of different timelines is handled masterfully. Viewers witness Charlie Hunnam as the killer in action – the murders, tomb violations, and curating his gruesome trophies. Simultaneously, the contemporary storyline follows Alfred Hitchcock, Robert Bloch, and Anthony Perkins as they craft the iconic film from Bloch's Gein-inspired novel. The blending of factual elements – Gein's religious mother and his fixation with women resembling her – and fictionalized scenes – fetishistic depictions of the Buchenwald criminal and Nazi party scenes – is executed proficiently.

A Critical Shortcoming

What it lacks, and unforgivably so, is any moral dimension or deeper insight to offset the lingering, loving shots of Gein's depraved acts. The series portrays his vibrant fantasy life and positions him as a helpless individual of his controlling parent and an accomplice with dark interests. The implied message seems to be: What is a poor, schizophrenic guy to do? During a key moment, the novelist speculates that without exposure to photographs, Gein would have remained a small-town simpleton.

A Departure from Precedent

You could argue that a show from this stable – renowned for sleek, exaggerated aesthetics – is an unlikely source for deep psychological exploration. However, earlier series like the OJ Simpson trial drama offered brilliant commentary on the press and the legal system. The Versace murder story delved into fame and culture. Impeachment examined systemic sexism. Thus, it is possible, and the producer has succeeded before.

The Final Verdict

Yet not in this case. This installment feels like an exploitation of a lesser-known criminal case. It demands sympathy for the man behind the masks without offering genuine insight into his transformation. Beyond the simplistic "religious mother" reasoning, there is no attempt to comprehend the origins or prevent future cases. This is merely gratuitous spectacle to the basest instincts of the audience. The wartime sequences do have lovely lighting, though.