Netflix's Monster Explores Ed Gein's Lasting Cultural Impact

Recent trends in horror and monster-themed media reveal a deepening exploration of psychological realism and ethical storytelling, with productions such as Netflix's "Monster: Ed Gein" using true crime to reflect societal fears and moral questions. The horror genre is evolving from simple fright to intellectual inquiry, where audiences seek meaning and self-awareness in the macabre, as noted in the rise of the "Dark Analysts" consumer group who treat horror as a study of the human condition. This evolution is mirrored in the cinematic world, where the figure of the monster, exemplified by Frankenstein, symbolizes anxieties about technology, humanity, and morality, themes explored in both literature and film since the early 20th century. Notably, Guillermo del Toro's recent "Frankenstein" film emphasizes the complex father/creator and creation relationship, using grandiose aesthetics to underscore the story's emotional depth, albeit with mixed critical reception due to its heavy stylistic choices. Scholars like Professor Meghan Sutherland highlight how monster films historically engage with technological anxieties and shape cultural understandings of humanity, solidifying monsters as key figures in media that reflect evolving social fears. Collectively, these insights point to horror and monster narratives not merely as entertainment but as a means to confront and understand the darker aspects of human nature and society.