**A STUNNING CONTROVERSY!** Netflix’s newest drop has everyone talking and for good reason. The show’s premise alone is enough to get most people riled up. But throw in shaky plot points with “real” characters and “fictional” situations, and you’ve got a recipe for a not-so-pleasant viewing experience.

Netflix’s newest offering, “Monster: The Menendez Brothers Story“, is a drama that has found its way into the cultural conversation, and for good reason: it presents an unsettling narrative of sexual alleged misconduct and familial betrayal. Audiences are drawn in by the premise and paraded revelations, but celebrities—and even some pundits—are questioning the appropriateness of the series.

The principal actors in the series offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into their astounding odyssey through it. One actor, in a no-holds-barred interview, shared the roller-coaster emotions of reading the script for the first time. “I couldn’t wrap my head around what I was reading,” they said. “The accusations were so appalling and upsetting that I was reduced to tears! I got to the point where I was almost in denial. But I also realized this could be a powerful vehicle for making folks talk about these murky truths, and that was my impetus for accepting this tough part.”

Reportedly grappling with the dark nature of his character, Javier stepped into the sinister patriarch’s shoes for this performance. Not much material existed on Jose Mendes either, which left everyone else in the production to do a lot of research and interpretation. But Javier, being the consummate professional that he is, embraced the role with the determination that has come to define his performances. He made a choice to unearth a narrative that was worth telling. And he accomplished it without becoming a caricature.

The producers of the show had an agenda which they forced upon the dramatic telling of the Menendez brothers’ story. They wanted to present not just a one-dimensional view of the brothers but an in-depth presentation of why they did what they did. To achieve this, they made the decision not to use the real-life people involved in the case (i.e., the brothers themselves) to tell the story. Instead, they cast actors to portray both the brothers and the family members who did speak up publicly about the case at the time it was being tried. This casting choice is one of the principal reasons for the show’s lacking in daring and being told in an easily digestible way without worrying too much about controversy.

Undoubtedly, this negative reaction adds to the rich tapestry of the series’ release. It has become a matter of heated debate among fans and critics: Should the Menendez brothers be freed? The Precedent is a work of art that takes a side. It challenges preconceived notions. It presents a narrative that could easily sway public opinion. But the real question is, “Is it art influencing justice, or is it just entertaining?”

Even with the controversy surrounding it, the creative team stands firm and holds true to what they say is their purpose: “The show opens different points of view.” They further explain, “As artists, we seek to highlight the suffering and bring awareness to the issues of sexual violence.” And if nothing else, the production really does drive home the urgent need for conversations about sexual violence and the very real toll that it takes on individuals and communities.

In an enjoyable turn of events, Colin Farrell, celebrated for his serious performances, took on a lighthearted role when asked how to separate oneself from the mentally taxing parts we play. Omega and I take a nosh to think about it. Farrell’s version goes like this: When I play a “bad guy,” I find relief and comfort in watching animated movies with my kids. This is a far cry from the intimidating public persona Farrell was known for a decade or so ago.

This series surpassed 12.4 million views within just four days. It’s more than just a show—it’s a cultural phenomenon. But the real question is, what will it prompt people to talk about and think about? […] Whatever’s about to spill out of their mouths is bound to be interesting. […] If views are any indication, though, Lyle and Erik Menendez’s story is just the kind of salacious true crime tale that gets folks roped into a conversation—and “Monster: The Menendez Brothers Story” is the latest installment of that kind of conversation starter.

Keep an eye on ongoing updates; this story is still unraveling. Will audiences get pulled more toward the empathy side of things and sympathize with the Menendez brothers? Or will they remain more divided, seeing them as guilty? Either way, the discussion can only further either/both sides’ cases and be good fodder for the next episode.