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You're probably familiar with Psycho, the iconic thriller, and the horror staple. Perhaps you've also explored the original novels that inspired the first two films. Now prepare to encounter the individual who inspired Norman Bates, the serial killer, 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 widespread notoriety. Then came the sibling duo – a more niche case for dedicated true crime fans. Attention now shifts to the Butcher of Plainfield. Although he doesn't possess the household name status of other notorious killers, and his confirmed victims number just two, his grave desecrations and macabre artistry with female corpses have made a profound impact. To this day, any media featuring dismembered remains, flayed skin, or items crafted from human tissue probably owes a debt to his actions from over 70 years ago.

A Tone of Flippancy

Do I sound flippant? This appears to be the deliberate approach of the production team. Rarely have I seen a drama that dwells so eagerly on the most heinous acts a person – and humanity – can commit. This includes a significant plotline devoted to the horrors of the Third Reich, presented with minimal moral context.

Structural and Stylistic Strengths

Structurally and stylistically, the show is impressive. The pacing is flawless, and the skillful blending of past and present is handled masterfully. We see Charlie Hunnam as Gein committing his crimes – the homicides, grave robberies, and curating his gruesome trophies. In parallel, the contemporary storyline follows the creative minds as they craft the iconic film from the literary source. The blending of factual elements – his devout parent and his obsession with female doppelgangers – and fictionalized scenes – fetishistic depictions of Ilse Koch and Nazi party scenes – is executed proficiently.

A Critical Shortcoming

What it lacks, in a truly unacceptable way, is ethical commentary or meaningful analysis to counterbalance the protracted, admiring visuals of his immoral deeds. The show presents his vibrant fantasy life and frames him as a man at the mercy of his controlling parent and a morbidly fascinated girlfriend. The underlying suggestion seems to be: What is a poor, schizophrenic guy to do? In one scene, the novelist theorizes that without seeing certain images, Gein would have remained a small-town simpleton.

Breaking from Past Success

One might contend that a show from this stable – renowned for glossy, high-camp style – is an unlikely source for deep psychological exploration. But previous works 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 embedded misogyny. Thus, it is possible, and Murphy has done it.

The Ultimate Assessment

But not here. This installment feels like a commercialization of a lesser-known criminal case. It asks for empathy for the individual responsible without offering genuine insight into his transformation. Beyond the simplistic "devout parent" reasoning, there is little effort to understand the creation or prevent future cases. It is nothing but gratuitous spectacle to the basest instincts of viewers. The wartime sequences do have lovely lighting, though.