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You've likely seen Psycho, 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 Norman Bates, Buffalo Bill, and Leatherface. The infamous Ed Gein!

The first two seasons of the series in question centered around Jeffrey Dahmer – a name with widespread notoriety. This was followed by the Menendez brothers – a somewhat specialized story for enthusiasts of the genre. Attention now shifts to the Butcher of Plainfield. Although he doesn't possess the brand recognition of other notorious killers, and only killed two people, his postmortem violations and macabre artistry with the deceased have made a profound impact. To this day, any film or show featuring dismembered remains, flayed skin, or skin-based artifacts likely draws inspiration to Gein's exploits from over 70 years ago.

A Tone of Flippancy

Is my tone too casual? This appears to be the intended style of the creators. Rarely have I seen a drama that lingers so gleefully on the worst depredations a person – and mankind – can commit. This includes a substantial narrative strand devoted to Nazi atrocities, shown with little to no justification.

Effective Pacing and Narrative

In terms of construction and style, the show is impressive. The pacing is flawless, and the skillful blending of different timelines is handled masterfully. We see the actor as Gein committing his crimes – the homicides, grave robberies, and assembling his collection. Simultaneously, the contemporary storyline follows Alfred Hitchcock, Robert Bloch, and Anthony Perkins as they develop Psycho from Bloch's Gein-inspired novel. The integration of the real – Gein's religious mother and his fixation with female doppelgangers – and fictionalized scenes – lurid portrayals of the Buchenwald criminal and Nazi party scenes – is executed proficiently.

The Glaring Omission

What it lacks, in a truly unacceptable way, is any moral dimension or deeper insight to offset the protracted, admiring visuals of his immoral deeds. The series portrays his vibrant fantasy life and frames him as a man at the mercy of his controlling parent and an accomplice with dark interests. The implied message seems to be: How could a mentally ill man resist? During a key moment, Robert Bloch speculates that without seeing certain images, Gein would have remained an unremarkable local.

Breaking from Past Success

One might contend that a Ryan Murphy production – known for glossy, high-camp style – is an unlikely source for profound human insight. However, earlier series like The People v OJ Simpson offered brilliant commentary on media and justice. The Versace murder story explored celebrity and society. Impeachment examined embedded misogyny. So it can be done, and the producer has succeeded before.

The Final Verdict

Yet not in this case. The Ed Gein Story feels like an exploitation of an underexploited true crime story. It asks for empathy for the individual responsible without providing understanding into how he became a monster. Aside from the reductive "devout parent" explanation, there is little effort to understand the creation or avert similar tragedies. It is nothing but gratuitous spectacle to the basest instincts of the audience. The Nazi scenes do have lovely lighting, though.