Monsters of God, a new HBO documentary series directed by Eric Goode, takes a more measured and nuanced approach to the topic of exotic animal trafficking compared to his previous works. Goode, an animal rights activist, has been refining his documentary formula, moving away from sensationalism and focusing on substance. This series explores the world of reptile trafficking, with a particular focus on the legal and illegal aspects of the trade.
The documentary introduces a wild and eccentric character, a man handling a king cobra, which immediately sets the tone for a more serious and less exploitative approach. Unlike his previous works, Goode avoids caricaturing the subjects and instead delves into the industry's history, tracing it back to the rivalry between Tommy Crutchfield and Hank Molt. The series also highlights the personal motivations of the traffickers, who are portrayed as reptile enthusiasts and experts, rather than criminals or lunatics.
One of the key strengths of the series is its chronological narrative, which provides a comprehensive overview of the industry. Goode interviews a range of individuals, including smugglers and law enforcement officers, offering a balanced perspective on the issue. The animals featured are eye-catching and scary, but the human characters are the true stars, with their colorful and dangerous personalities. Goode's approach is more respectful and less mocking compared to his earlier works, which adds to the series' credibility.
However, the series is not without its flaws. It is too long and repetitive, with Goode's persistence in securing interviews with elusive traffickers becoming somewhat tiresome. Despite this, the series is more watchable and less likely to attract rubber-necking viewers. Goode's conclusions, while simplistic, are probably correct, and he advocates for a more regulated approach to exotic animal ownership.
In conclusion, 'Monsters of God' is a more mature and thoughtful exploration of a controversial topic. Goode's shift towards a more nuanced and balanced approach is commendable, and it leaves the audience with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding exotic animal trafficking. This series is a step in the right direction for Goode's documentary career, and it paves the way for a potential future series on everyday pet shops and the issues surrounding puppy mills and pure-bred dog and cat sales.
