In a streaming landscape often saturated with content, a new historical mini-series on Netflix has cut through the noise, becoming an instant critical and audience favourite. Death by Lightning, which premiered on November 6, 2025, is being celebrated as a rare quality period drama and even dubbed the best historical series of the year by some viewers.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Adoration
The series has garnered impressive scores on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, achieving a stellar 91% approval rating from critics and a strong 86% from audiences. This consensus highlights the show's exceptional quality, with praise centred on its sharp writing, powerful performances, and authentic depiction of real events. Fans have taken to social media to express their admiration, with many describing the experience as fresh, gripping and unlike most period dramas available today.
One captivated viewer commented on the show's addictive quality, stating they were so engrossed they couldn't stop watching. Another declared it a must-see and a masterpiece, specifically applauding the acting, set design, and costumes. Perhaps the most telling endorsement came from a fan who revealed, I literally watched this twice over two days, emphasising the series' exceptional rewatch value and standout production quality.
A Stellar Cast Brings History to Life
Death by Lightning dramatises the story of US President James A. Garfield and his assassin, Charles J. Guiteau. The series boasts an acclaimed cast, led by Michael Shannon in the role of President Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen portraying the delusional Guiteau. They are supported by a talented ensemble including Betty Gilpin, Shea Whigham, Bradley Whitford, and Nick Offerman.
Created by Mike Makowsky and based on Candice Millard's book 'Destiny of the Republic', the four-part drama meticulously charts Garfield's ascent to the presidency, his reformist agenda, and the tragic circumstances of his death. Critics have particularly commended the series for its nuanced exploration of Garfield's brief tenure and the chilling portrayal of Guiteau's growing obsession.
Why This Period Drama Stands Out
While lavish historical productions can sometimes prioritise style over substance, reports indicate that Death by Lightning successfully marries a compelling narrative with stunning production values. The series manages to feel both grand in scale and intimately focused on its complex characters. This balance, combined with its tight four-episode structure, has made it a binge-worthy sensation that avoids the pacing pitfalls of longer series.
The show's arrival has sparked conversations about the enduring power of well-executed historical drama, proving there is a significant audience for intelligent, character-driven storytelling rooted in real events. Its immediate success suggests a strong word-of-mouth effect, driving more viewers to discover what is quickly becoming one of Netflix's most talked-about releases this winter.
All four episodes of Death by Lightning are available to stream globally on Netflix.
