LOVE and DEATH-A True Crime and Trial Stars Elizabeth Olsen

There's plenty to love about the mini series on HBO MAX, "LOVE and DEATH." The seven part series is based on a true case of a clandestine affair within a close church community that resulted in a killing and a thrilling courtroom drama. Candace Montgomery (portrayed by a feral Elizabeth Olsen) was charged with the murder of Betty Gore (Lily Rabe) which occurred on June 13, 1980. Gore's husband, Allan (played by a pitch perfect Jesse Plemmons) and Candace were having an extramarital affair. The Montgomery family and the Gore family had daughters the same age who were best friends and both families were closely tied to their local Methodist Church. This case received a great deal of media attention at the time, both for its salacious underpinnings and the ensuing trial's verdict which was vilified  in the community where the gruesome killing took place.  This easily watchable series is deftly written for television by Television Hall of Fame inductee, David E. Kelly (BOSTON LEGAL, LA LAW).  Olsen as Candace is mesmerizing in her portrayal of a fearless narcissist who expects adoration from everyone and is restless in her role as a suburban housewife. Candace can manage her husband, household and church commitments but is left craving more stimulation. She thinks Allan may be the answer to her daily doldrums.  It doesn't require much convincing on Candace's part to persuade Allan they should be lovers. Plemmons has starred in "Killers of the Flower Moon" and "The Power of the Dog". He is ingratiating as the pushover husband and willing participant in afternoon motel delights. Betty Gore is played by Lily Rabe ("Shrinking", "The Undoing"). Rabe is wonderful as the gullible friend and wife always bordering on hysteria. The seven episodes all work as a mystery, chilling character study and a riveting courtroom thriller. The supporting cast including Candace's husband, her defense lawyer and best girlfriend are excellent in their roles and all manage to bring out Candace's cunning and charm. The facts presented closely compare to the real people and circumstances. The fascination with Candace Montgomery case spawned a book titled "Evidence of Love," a TV film and a Hulu series starring Jessica Biel. The LOVE AND DEATH series screening on HBO Max is not so much a "who did it crime." It's a can you believe this is all true and believe you me, you do want in on it.