The new limited series Death by Lightning by Netflix has certainly landed with a big bang, and viewers cannot stop discussing it. On Rotten Tomatoes, the show has a score of 100 percent, something that is hard to achieve for a new drama. This historical play, starring Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen, has immediately drawn everyone’s attention.The series transforms a real-life event from 19th-century America, full of politics, obsession, and tragedy, into something sharp, emotional, and modern. Shannon stars as U.S. President James Garfield and Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau, the troubled man who alters the destiny of Garfield.The show, directed by Matt Ross and produced by Mike Makowsky, combines a series of intense courtroom scenes, quiet moments of power tussle, and emotional acting that keeps the plot moving. According to critics, acting, writing, and direction are unified in a wonderful manner. Death by Lightning is already a success on Netflix and will appeal to anyone who loves their history with a dramatic touch, intelligence, and a pinch of dark humor.Why critics already love Death by Lightning View this post on Instagram Instagram PostIt is not that critics are handing Death by Lightning's flawless grades merely due to its period sets and costumes. They are commending it for its crisp writing, its production design and good performances that bring the real story alive. According to the reviewers, Death by Lightning has a movie-like quality, yet remains focused in the sense that each scene brings something significant to the story or the characters, and that the tension is constantly rising, like a thundercloud before the storm.Michael Shannon playing the role of President James Garfield is receiving particular acclaim for being so composed, profound, and all too human. He transforms a forgotten president into one that the audience can relate to. Conversely, Matthew Macfadyen, the actor who portrays Charles Guiteau, the man who altered the destiny of Garfield with an air of charm and insanity. His performance does not make the character cartoonish but reveals the internal battles.Its direction and camera work are also exceptional, huge political scenes are shot in intimate settings making Washington seem mighty and stifling at the same time. Together, the crisp writing, attention to detail in direction and excellent performance on the part of two seasoned actors have astonished critics. Death by Lightning is not a lesson in history, it is a dramatic, human narrative that is told with style and richness.Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen power the showDeath By Lightning Special Screening - Source: GettyThe chemistry between Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen is one of the largest highlights in Death by Lightning. Their styles of acting are totally different, yet that is what makes them work so well together.Shannon takes his typical energy of intensity and unpredictability and makes the character of the president multifaceted and silently powerful. However, Macfadyen plays his role with a cool exterior but a tempest simmering within. His Guiteau is a darkly comic and sometimes disturbing.The differences are utilized in the show to create a great contrast: Shannon is a symbol of authority and control, while Macfadyen displays the messiness of obsession and individuality. This has been hailed by critics as a perfect balance of power and tension. The supporting actors bring a lot of details and richness to the story, yet Death by Lightning makes a wise choice by allowing Shannon and Macfadyen to shine in the long and powerful scenes that do not feel like gimmicks.Why should you go for Death by Lightning View this post on Instagram Instagram PostIn case the very idea of the historical drama evokes in your mind the image of long walks and boring history lessons, Death by Lightning will make you rethink it. It is a very human tale of ambition, loneliness, belief and the power of one individual to change history.The late nineteenth century appears natural and realistic. The mystery and courtroom tale is fast-paced and prevents you from losing interest. The main stars play their parts with some vigor that is worth following. The episodes are short, sharp and tense. And having a perfect score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, it is obviously a must-watch.For more such insights on Death by Lightning, keep following SoapCentral.