The true crime genre has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, with numerous documentaries and miniseries delving into real-life cases that captivate and intrigue audiences. One such case is the story of Candy Montgomery, a housewife who brutally murdered her friend’s husband in a small town in Texas in 1980.
The story has been adapted into two separate miniseries, Love & Death on HBO Max and Candy on Hulu. While both shows are based on the same true story, they take vastly different approaches to telling it.
Production and Casting Differences
One of the most apparent differences between the two adaptations is their production and casting. Love & Death features a larger ensemble cast, including Elizabeth Olsen, Jesse Plemons and Patrick Fugit, while Candy stars Elisabeth Moss in the lead role of Candy Montgomery. Additionally, Candy is shorter than Love & Death, with only five episodes compared to the latter’s seven
Storytelling Tactics and Sources
The Love & Death TV show is based on a book written by Jim Atkinson and John Bloom. However, the show is different because it tells the story in a more dramatic and interesting way. The show has good actors and special effects, which makes it more exciting to watch. The goal of the show is to keep viewers interested and entertained.
Candy heavily focuses on the psychological elements of the case, exploring themes of female rage and the complex emotions of the people involved. The show takes a more slow-burn approach, with a focus on character study and building tension throughout the series. Additionally, Candy immediately tells the audience who dies, while Love & Death takes a more gradual approach to reveal the details of the case.
Personal Preference
While both shows have their strengths and weaknesses, it’s clear that they offer vastly different experiences for viewers. Love & Death is a more straightforward retelling of the events, while Candy takes a more nuanced approach, focusing on the psychological elements of the case. Ultimately, the choice between the two shows comes down to personal preference, but both offer compelling and disturbing looks at a shocking true crime story.
Fans of true crime will likely find something to enjoy in both adaptations. Whether you prefer a more traditional dramatic retelling of the events or a deeper exploration of the psychological elements of the case, both Love & Death and Candy offer compelling and thought-provoking viewing experiences.
