The Shards: A Glamorous Murder Mystery in 1980’s Los Angeles

Left to Right: Graham Cambell, Kaia Gerber, Igby Rigney, Hayes Warner, Homer Gere (Courtesy of FX)

The newest Ryan Murphy series, “The Shards”, is killer…literally.

Based on the novel of the same title by Brett Easton Ellis (Co-creator alongside Murphy), the show explores 80’s teens dealing with strained relationships, troubled parents, class dynamics, gender identities, and now, murder. Set in Los Angeles in the fall of 1981, “The Shards” focuses on a group of wealthy friends, Brett (Igby Rigney), Debbie (Hayes Warner), Susan (Kaia Gerber), and Thom (Graham Cambell) as their blissful existence is interrupted by newcomer Robert (Homer Gere) and a string of killings affecting their classmates.

Courtesy of FX

Going from page to screen, Ellis and Murphy bring the characters to life through seamless casting choices, chemistry, dialogue, styling and costumes. With a constantly revolving wardrobe and new mansion or party to go to, each actor is fit with attire authentic to the era. Not only does the fashion give a sense of who these individuals are, but the complex dialogue and interactions between them as well. From closeted Brett’s relationship with attention seeking Debby, that of class president-over achiever Susan’s with (seemingly) simple minded Thom, and then the cunning, provactive Robert, there remains an underlying sense of tension.

The brilliance of Ellis’ complex characters is elevated by the style of Murphy’s production, immersing the viewer in life of 1980’s Los Angeles. From the group’s Beverly Hills mansions, shopping trips to the mall, prep school, and fancy dining spots, one gets a grasp of not only the city but the privileged lives of the protagonists. The score helps further the atmosphere, with 80’s hits compounding the aforementioned elements to establish the atmosphere and tone.

Courtesy of FX

One of the primary backbones of the series is the mystery behind “The Trawler”, a serial killer who has started targeting the core four’s classmates. Being the most perceptive and skeptical, Brett takes a fascination with the murder spree; being in his peripheral rather than an afterthought like that of his classmates (who, rather, are focused on homecoming, parties, and dance-offs). As the killer starts to snatch their peers, the oblivious, glitzy view of Los Angeles gives way to undertones of darkness that drives deep through the foundation of the characters’ existence. As the group gets divided through Robert’s arrival and the dissonance of the killings, their idealistic lifestyles may never be quite the same.

Courtesy of Ray Mickshaw/FX

Strike Out.

Author: Will Bonifas

Los Angeles