The fourth season of Netflix’s crime thriller, “Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story,” takes a bold narrative approach, blending fact and fiction in its exploration of one of America’s most infamous murder cases. While the series is known for its dramatic liberties, this season delves deeper into the complexities of female violence, moving beyond a mere retelling of the Borden family’s tragic history.
At the heart of the story is Lizzie Borden, who was acquitted of the brutal murders of her father, Andrew Borden, and stepmother, Abby Borden, in 1892. The case remains shrouded in mystery, with many questions still unanswered. The show’s creators have taken advantage of this ambiguity, crafting a narrative that emphasizes the societal pressures and personal conflicts that may have driven a woman to commit such heinous acts.
Filming Locations for Season 4
Filming for the Lizzie Borden season primarily took place in Los Angeles, with additional scenes shot in various castles throughout Rome. This choice of locations is likely tied to a subplot involving Elizabeth Báthory, a historical figure known for her alleged crimes against young women. Interestingly, the actual Lizzie Borden house, now a bed and breakfast in Fall River, Massachusetts, was not used for filming, as it has gained a reputation as one of America’s most haunted locations.
The Borden Murders: A Historical Overview
The Borden case has captivated the public for over a century. Lizzie, the third daughter of Andrew and Sarah Borden, was embroiled in family tensions that escalated leading up to the murders. On August 4, 1892, Abby Borden was found murdered in the home, followed by Andrew shortly after. The brutality of the killings—Abby was struck over 17 times, while Andrew suffered between 10 and 11 blows—left the community in shock.
Lizzie quickly became a suspect, not only due to her proximity to the crime but also because of her seemingly calm demeanor during police questioning. Despite the circumstantial evidence, she was acquitted in a trial that lasted only 40 minutes, largely due to the lack of concrete evidence against her and prevailing societal attitudes that made it difficult to believe a woman of her status could commit such violence.
Myths and Misconceptions
Throughout the years, various myths have emerged about Lizzie Borden, including speculation about her personal life. Contrary to some portrayals, Lizzie never had children and spent most of her life in Fall River. Additionally, while the series hints at a romantic relationship between Lizzie and the family maid, Bridget Sullivan, historical evidence does not support this claim. Their relationship was more complex, with Bridget’s testimony playing a significant role in the investigation against Lizzie.
As the series unfolds, it continues to challenge viewers’ perceptions of Lizzie Borden, inviting them to consider the broader implications of her story within the context of women’s roles in society. With its ambitious narrative and historical backdrop, “Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story” promises to be a thought-provoking addition to the true crime genre.
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