Dahmer: A Review

Alice Chung | November 14, 2022

Illustration courtesy: Ashleigh Kim

Given that every single video on my TikTok page was about Jeffrey Dahmer, my curiosity peaked to find out what the hype was all about. You may also have head about the latest Netflix series, which dominated the global charts in no time: "Dahmer—Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story." The original series based on a true story, follows the events of the infamous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer and his rise to murder.

Alongside Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy; Jeffrey Dahmer, also known as the milwaukee Monster, stands as one of the most disturbing serial killers yo have ever existed. NOt only was he responsible for the death of 17 men and boys, but he went as far as dismembering their bodies and engaging cannibalism. While numerous true crime documentaries and films have previously addressed the Jeffrey Dahmer and his murders, the new series: is unique in that it represents the details in a whole new level, replicating scenes almost identical to the real events As much as the show can be applauded for its accurate portrayal of Dahmer, and his upbringing, it has also received a substantial amount of backlash for its insensitivity.

The series moves back and forth between milestones in Dahmer's life, in which we witness the brutal murder of each victim. The episodes not only delve deeply into the disturbing murders of each victim but we also are exposed to their personal struggles and family situations. Thus, the show becomes heavily person to the victims, necessitating respect to their privacy, To make matters worse, none of the victim's families were informed about the show's production Views have expressed their shock and outrage at the production's irresponsible approach yo the series making, keeping in mind that victim's families and friends had to wake up to the internet erupting over the loss of a loved one. Victims' families were quick to respond, claiming that the show was "retraumatizing" with so much media attention focusing on Dahmer's violence prior to the show airing.

Other criticism leveled by the public is that the series evokes unnecessary empathy for Dahme. Looking into his troubled childhood, viewers have expressed their sense of empathy for Dahmer and their belief that he deserved better. Some have even said that he should be forgiven because he appeared to show genuine remorse for his crimes. Others, on the other hand, have voiced their anger at the lack of thought put into the public's words. There have been a number of insensitive comments about the show ever since it was brought to attention that may almost be as disturbing as the show itself. People have states that they find the Character of Jeffrey Dahmer rather attractive and charismatic—Gen-Z surely knows how to push beyond the limits.

This begs the question of whether these shows are ethical, as they motivate false empathy for inexcusable acts for the purpose of creating entertainment. Yes, Dahmer did not receive the necessary support as a child and was frequently neglected by his family and peers; maybe there could have been ways yo prevent him from committing his crimes. But, let us remember that his lack of self-control cost the lives of many innocent individuals. Under no circumstances can this fact be changed, dismissed, or justified.