“Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story” dives into the lives of the infamous brothers who gained notoriety after murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills mansion in 1989.

This true crime series recounts the polemic trials and actions that led to their life sentences, also underscoring the atrocious histories of abuse that Lyle and Erik allegedly suffered at the hands of their own parents from a young age.

With an attentive focus on the past and psychological profiles of the brothers, “Monsters” proportionates a more sincere view of the Menéndez family dynamics, as well as intricate legal details surrounding the case. Traversing multiple perspectives, the series seeks to answer a pivotal question: what drove the brothers to commit the murder of Kitty and José Menéndez?

Despite boiling controversy around the production – where the brothers have alleged dissatisfaction with their dishonest portrayal – it is interesting to note details that might be more proximate to reality. Filmed in Los Angeles, “Monsters” captures key scenes to the story, including the Menéndez mansion and emblematic landmarks throughout the city. A California perfectly situated in the 80s and 90s immerses viewers in this horrifying though compelling narration.

The Menéndez family house

The place where everything began, and arguably the one that takes on a protagonist role in the series – almost evolving as a character on its own – is the family house. This magnificent Beverly Hills mansion stands as a grandiose Mediterranean villa, endowed with high ceilings and a striking spiral staircase that captures the attention of any visitor. Large Palladian windows in the living room and Italian-imported flooring are just a few details that reveal wealthy and luxurious lifestyle of the Menéndez family; José was a prominent musical executive at RCA Records.

While filming in the original building was not possible due to the current owners residing there, the interiors of the mansion in North Elm Drive were substituted with those of the property at 134 North Plymouth Boulevard. The production carefully recreated 1980s ambience of the house, focusing on details to exude an authentic aesthetic of the era. As for the exteriors, a very similar situation was chosen, complete with a swimming pool, terrace, two-floor guest house, tennis court and wine cellar.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is showcased through numerous images that capture the charm of the warm city. The protagonists of the series filmed important scenes – boat included – at Port of Los Angeles, the largest in the United States and one of the busiest in the world. A backdrop of palm trees and Californian beaches served as central elements to situate the plot in this sun-soaked West Coast city, while the main technique involves displaying typical landmarks. Examples include the Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Venice Canal Historic District, and Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels – all of which characterize this charismatic region.

Los Angeles likely has the highest number of cinematographic works, thanks to its diverse array of scenery; from urban yet laid-back settings, to exuberant, expansive nature. The abundance of filming studios is another major asset that attracts producers. This year, projects such as “Nobody Wants This,” “A Family Affair,” and “The Idea of You,” among many others, have taken advantage of what the capital of cinema has to offer.

You can watch “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story” on Netflix.

Aitana Esteban Rando

Aitana, born and raised in Spain, loves exploring new places and different cultures while staying true to her roots. She's on a mission to visit every spot that stole her heart in books and movies. Fluent in Spanish and English, she's now learning Arabic. For her, speaking different languages is the key to understand the world's beautiful diversity.