The world of wildlife trafficking gets a sensational spotlight in HBO’s latest documentary series, *Monsters of God*. Directed by Eric Goode, the show chronicles the intense rivalry between two notorious reptile smugglers, Hank Molt and Tommy Crutchfield, whose bitter feud mirrors the chaotic drama that captivated audiences in *Tiger King*. With a vivid narrative woven from real-life events, this series plunges into the murky waters of the illegal animal trade, revealing the eccentric personalities and shocking actions that underpin this hidden underworld.
A Wild Rivalry Unfolds
In the age of pandemic-induced binge-watching, few series have sparked as much conversation as *Tiger King*. Its bizarre blend of crime and eccentricity made it a must-watch for viewers seeking escapism during lockdown. Following in its footsteps, *Monsters of God* channels a similar energy, but this time the focus is on the reptilian underbelly of the animal trade. The series draws inspiration from Bryan Christy’s 2008 book, *The Lizard King*, promising a deep dive into the tangled web of deceit and ambition surrounding the smuggling of exotic reptiles.
At the heart of the series lies the antagonistic relationship between Molt and Crutchfield. Their rivalry is rich with personal vendettas and colourful backstories. For instance, Molt, who once peddled mayonnaise, is staunchly critical of Crutchfield, branding him as “one of the angriest and most bitter people I’ve ever met”. Meanwhile, Crutchfield, who had his wedding reception at a venue cheekily named Snake-a-Torium, views Molt as someone who can “turn anything good into bad.” Their contentious exchanges set the stage for a gripping exploration of the reptile smuggling scene.
Dark Tales of the Trade
As the series unfolds, audiences are introduced to a host of bizarre characters and jaw-dropping anecdotes that populate the world of reptile trafficking. The narrative reveals how, despite growing environmental awareness in the late 1960s, a “don’t ask, don’t tell” mentality persisted in zoos and among traders. The documentary highlights the lengths to which these smugglers would go to satisfy their illicit appetites. One particularly harrowing episode recounts how Molt, under pressure from law enforcement, buried a stash of live animals in New Jersey’s Pine Barrens—a place that would later achieve notoriety through popular culture.
Crutchfield’s exploits are equally astounding; he claims to have supplied cobras for a Hollywood film and even sold tortoises to pop icon Michael Jackson. The series also touches on the greater implications of their actions, including the near-extinction of species like the ploughshare tortoise, driven by the greed and recklessness of traders like Anson Wong, a notorious dealer from Malaysia.
A Tangled Narrative
Despite its engaging start, *Monsters of God* occasionally struggles with pacing, particularly in its later episodes. The initial thrill of Molt and Crutchfield’s rivalry gives way to a more scattered approach, with the series trying to juggle multiple storylines. While it is peppered with entertaining anecdotes—like a federal agent going undercover in a gorilla suit—the narrative sometimes veers off course, leaving viewers wondering if they are still focused on the central theme of reptile trade.
One particularly amusing detour follows a German associate of Crutchfield, who made a dramatic escape attempt from law enforcement while handcuffed and wearing Birkenstocks. While these stories add flair, they can dilute the series’ overall impact, making it feel less cohesive than it could have been. It raises the question: could *Monsters of God* have benefited from a tighter narrative structure?
Why it Matters
*Monsters of God* ultimately serves as a powerful reminder of the human impact on wildlife and the ongoing battle against illegal animal trade. While the series entertains with its outrageous characters and shocking revelations, it also sheds light on serious conservation issues that are often overshadowed by sensationalism. As Goode navigates the chaotic world of reptile smuggling, he underscores the urgent need for awareness and action in protecting endangered species. In an age where environmental concerns are increasingly critical, this documentary reinforces the idea that our actions today can profoundly affect the natural world tomorrow.
