Monsters of God Review: Reptile Smugglers' Feud Echoes Tiger King

Director Eric Goode's new documentary, "Monsters of God," delves into the clandestine world of the illegal reptile trade, drawing parallels to the widely popular 2020 docuseries "Tiger King." The film, a co-production between Goode Films, HBO, and A24, is inspired by Bryan Christy's 2008 book, "The Lizard King." It uncovers a complex network involving cunning smugglers, organized crime syndicates, and even legitimate zoos allegedly complicit in overlooking the origins of their exotic animal acquisitions. The documentary primarily focuses on the United States, though it acknowledges the global nature of the supply chain for these illicit goods. Central to the narrative are Hank Molt and Tommy Crutchfield, two individuals credited with initiating the illegal reptile trade. Much like the contentious relationship between Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin in "Tiger King," the film highlights the intense animosity between Crutchfield and Molt, exploring their personal histories and bitter rivalry. Crutchfield characterizes Molt as someone who "will turn anything good into bad," while Molt describes Crutchfield as "one of the angriest and most bitter people I’ve ever met." The documentary further illuminates their pasts, revealing that Molt was formerly a mayonnaise salesman and Crutchfield once worked at an establishment that sounds like it might have been a zoo or animal-related facility, though the exact nature of his employment is not fully detailed in the provided text. The series promises to explore a multitude of "wild stories and even wilder characters" within this shadowy industry. Goode, who also produced "Tiger King" follow-ups and the series "Chimp Crazy," continues his exploration of the animal trade's underbelly with "Monsters of God." The film aims to expose the darker aspects of the exotic animal market, where profit often supersedes ethical considerations and legal boundaries. The narrative structure is expected to be as sensational and character-driven as its predecessor, focusing on the personal vendettas and eccentric personalities that populate this illicit domain. The documentary's release is positioned within a broader cultural fascination with true crime and the often-bizarre lives of individuals operating outside societal norms, a trend significantly amplified by the success of "Tiger King." The film's exploration of the reptile trade adds another dimension to this genre, focusing on a less commonly depicted facet of the illegal animal market. The involvement of HBO and A24 suggests a high production value and a commitment to delivering a compelling, albeit potentially disturbing, viewing experience. The documentary's success will likely hinge on its ability to balance the sensational aspects of the smugglers' feud with a deeper examination of the systemic issues within the global animal trade.