Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 13, 2024 1:01 am GMT
As audiences prepare to delve into the complex and chilling world of “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem shares his excitement about his first-ever regular television role. Playing José Menendez, the patriarch of a family entwined in a notorious double murder case, Bardem reflects on his creative collaboration with acclaimed producer Ryan Murphy and the impactful themes explored in the series.
Bardem’s Passion for the Project
Bardem, widely recognized for his roles in films like “No Country for Old Men,” expressed a strong desire to work with Ryan Murphy after being captivated by the first season of the “Monster” anthology series, which focused on notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. He stated, “Once I saw ‘Dahmer,’ I said, ‘I want to work with you in one of those.’”
The Spanish-born actor emphasized Murphy’s approach to storytelling, noting, “He was so loving and so caring and so generous and fun to work with and inspiring.” This collaborative spirit was a key factor in convincing Bardem to take on such a challenging role.
Understanding the Menendez Case
Before joining the cast, Bardem was not familiar with the Menendez case, a double murder that took place in Los Angeles in 1989. Yet, as he researched the history and the distressing allegations surrounding the family, he recalled feeling apprehensive. “When I started to dig in… I was scared, like, ‘Oh, wow. Okay, this is what you want me to do,’” he remarked.
Despite his reservations, Bardem recognized the importance of the show’s themes, particularly regarding trauma. He noted that the series addresses the lasting effects of childhood trauma, highlighting that “not being able to heal the traumatic events can cause dramatic effect for generations to come.”
Exploring Sensitive Themes
Bardem’s portrayal of a father accused of horrific abuse presents unique challenges. He described his approach to the character and how he aims to balance the disturbing aspects of the role with a sense of responsibility. “I guess you just go in and just play it safe,” he said, adding that separating his work from his personal life is crucial. “I have a family that I go to at the end of the day, and I don’t want to show up being somebody that is not daddy or the husband or the partner.”
Knowing that Murphy would handle the sensitive subject matter with care reassured Bardem. He expressed his confidence that the show would treat its themes with respect and depth.
Caption: Javier Bardem stars in “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” streaming on Netflix starting Thursday.
What Viewers Can Expect
“Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” is a nine-part series that delves into the tragic events surrounding the Menendez family. Viewers can expect a comprehensive exploration of:
- The lives of Lyle and Erik Menendez before the murders.
- The impact of their upbringing and the alleged abuse they suffered.
- The trials that captivated the nation and dissected themes of justice and trauma.
The series promises to combine Bardem’s nuanced performance with powerful storytelling, potentially shifting the way audiences perceive the infamous Menendez case.
A Trailblazing Role for Bardem
Bardem’s transition to a regular role in a television series marks a significant milestone in his career. The actor, who has won multiple accolades for his film performances, is enthusiastic about this new venture. “It’s a job, and the more I allow myself to play with imagination, the farther I can go, I think,” he explained.
His commitment to portraying José Menendez authentically reflects his dedication to the craft. Bardem’s engaging performance is anticipated to resonate with audiences, sparking dialogues around the complexities of family dynamics, abuse, and the quest for justice.
Conclusion
“Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” is coming to Netflix this Thursday. It promises to take viewers on a journey filled with mystery and deep emotions. Javier Bardem plays a man caught in a sad story, and we will see him explore feelings like fear and complexity. This series is sure to be both creepy and thought-provoking, changing the way we think about crime and the effects of trauma in our world.
