Key Highlights
- The Monster of Florence is an Italian miniseries that has become a global streaming sensation on Netflix.
- The show explores the investigation into a string of double homicides in Florence from the 1960s to the 1980s.
- Directed by Stefano Sollima, the series reunites him with writer Leonardo Fasoli and features a four-episode run.
- The show has surpassed other Netflix hits on October 23, according to FlixPatrol data.
The Global Phenomenon of ‘The Monster of Florence’
Netflix’s latest entry into the investigative thriller genre, “The Monster of Florence,” has quickly made waves globally. Since its debut on October 19, 2025, this four-episode miniseries has not only captured the attention of streaming enthusiasts but also surpassed popular shows like “Boots,” “The Diplomat,” and “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” in viewership.
Background and Production
Directed by Stefano Sollima, known for his work on “Sicario 2: Day of the Soldado” and “Without Remorse,” this series also features the collaboration of Leonardo Fasoli. The two previously worked together on critically acclaimed miniseries like “Gomorrah” and “ZeroZeroZero.” The story revolves around a notorious serial killer known as “Il Mostro di Firenze,” whose crimes span several decades, causing fear and confusion in Florence.
Viewer Response and Critical Reception
“The Monster of Florence” has received mixed reviews from critics. According to Collider’s Samuel R. Murrian, the series offers a “frightening and impressively thoughtful exploration of what kind of mind could conceivably carry out serial murder.” He also noted that it is “a vastly superior and more thematically responsible project” compared to Ryan Murphy’s “Monster,” which faced criticism for its perceived glorification of criminal behavior.
On the Rotten Tomatoes aggregator, the series currently holds a 63% score, indicating a mixed but generally positive reception among viewers. Despite the critical response, the show has managed to achieve significant streaming success, solidifying its place in Netflix’s lineup.
The Legacy of ‘Mindhunter’ and Its Successor
While “The Monster of Florence” stands as a compelling entry into the investigative thriller genre, it follows closely on the heels of Netflix’s highly anticipated but ultimately expensive series “Mindhunter.” David Fincher’s psychological drama, which also delved into serial killers and crime psychology, faced financial challenges due to its high production costs. In his recent interviews, Fincher himself acknowledged that the show was “simply too costly to justify itself,” leading to a third season never materializing.
This development has prompted audiences to seek out alternatives, with “The Monster of Florence” emerging as a strong candidate in this space. Its low-key rollout and global success highlight Netflix’s continued investment in international content that can compete with its American counterparts.
Future Implications for Streaming Series
The success of “The Monster of Florence” may signal a shift in how streaming platforms approach investigative thrillers, particularly those based on true crime. The series’ ability to surpass established shows and gain widespread attention demonstrates the power of well-crafted storytelling within this genre.
For viewers who have grown accustomed to the American-centric content often dominated by Ryan Murphy’s production company, “The Monster of Florence” offers a fresh perspective from Italy. This global interest in true crime narratives suggests that there is an appetite for diverse and nuanced storytelling across different cultures and contexts on streaming platforms like Netflix.
In conclusion, “The Monster of Florence” represents both a triumph for Stefano Sollima and Leonardo Fasoli and a testament to the evolving landscape of investigative thrillers on global streaming services. As more countries produce high-quality content, it is likely that audiences will continue to seek out diverse narratives that challenge their understanding of true crime.
