The Menendez brothers’ murder case is by far one of the most notorious murder
cases in history. This case convicted 18-year-old Erik Menendez and 21-year-old Lyle
Menendez of killing their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverely Hills Home in
1989. Erik Menendez confessed to the killing of their parents to their therapist, Dr. Jerome
Oziel. The doctor did not initially tell the police about their confession, but he did start
recording the sessions. As investigation went on, the tapes were found in the therapist’s
home and police now carried the largest piece of evidence to prove the brothers are guilty.
The brothers were then arrested, and they were brought to court in July 1993. Prosecutors
accused the brothers of killing their parents for wealth. The boys claim it was out of fear
and self-defense after years of abuse. The boys were both sentenced to life without parole.

Since occurring in 1989, there have been more than 10 documentaries about their
complex case. However, recently one has taken the media by storm. “Monsters: The Lyle
and Erik Menendez Story”, a docuseries recently released on Netflix, has crime lovers and
binge watchers hooked. The boys are portrayed by Cooper Koch (Erik Menendez) and
Nicholas Chavez (Lyle Menendez). This series has the story told from multiple points of
view, including the brothers and parents. It makes the viewer consider different parts of the
case, similar to how a juror would be presented the case. The series is directed by Ryan
Murphy.

Since its release, the series has gotten black lash over its inaccuracies and
portrayals of the brothers. Critics and fans believe that the innocent portrayal of the
parents is harmful to the boy’s case. Besides this, fans believe that the way they portray
their personalities, specifically Lyles, does not show the boys’ real feelings about the
situation. Erik Menendez has also spoken out about the case through a series of
statements on Facebook. He argues that the series has set them back through inaccuratecharacter portrayals of him and his brother. He also says that the series conveys the
message that boys cannot be victims of abuse. Fans and the brothers have slammed this
series, and it has gained much controversy.

As of October 21st, the case is currently being reopened. This is due to the finding
and new evidence such as letters from family members. This case is not just a Netflix
drama series, it is real life.