The Netflix series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story has sparked considerable attention, though not all of it positive. Erik Menendez, one of the brothers convicted of murdering their parents in 1989, has criticized the show for portraying what he calls “blatant lies” about their lives. He accused creator Ryan Murphy of deliberately distorting facts to create a caricature of his brother Lyle, which he finds harmful and misleading.
For those interested in the Menendez brothers’ case, another dramatized version exists. Law and Order True Crime: The Menendez Murders, released in 2017, stars Edie Falco as defense attorney Leslie Abramson, who represented the brothers during their trial. Some viewers believe this series offers a more accurate portrayal of the events, compared to the Netflix version, which has been criticized for dramatizing the story too heavily.
Debate often surrounds true crime adaptations regarding their fidelity to real events. While some accept that artistic license will be used for dramatic effect, others are concerned about the impact such portrayals can have on public perception, especially when they deviate from the facts. This has become a point of contention for fans of the Menendez case who seek a more truthful representation of the infamous trial.
For those who feel unsatisfied with the Netflix adaptation, Law and Order True Crime: The Menendez Murders provides an alternative perspective on the case. Available for purchase on Apple TV, it offers viewers another way to explore the complex and tragic story of the Menendez brothers.
