‘Monsters of God’: New Documentary From ‘Tiger King’ Creator Tackles Illegal Reptile Trade

"Monsters of God," a new HBO documentary produced by Eric Goode, the creator of "Tiger King," delves into the illegal reptile trade. The series explores the dark and dangerous world of exotic animal smuggling, tracing the evolution of the reptile trade over decades. Through interviews with animal enthusiasts, wildlife traffickers, and federal agents, the documentary sheds light on the connections between the international reptile trade and drug trafficking, as well as the supply of illegal animals to major zoos across the US.

Goode emphasizes that the "monsters" referenced in the show's title are the humans involved in the illegal trade, not the exotic reptiles. He criticizes human behavior, stating that humans are the true destroyers of the planet under the guise of being superior beings. The series is based on Bryan Christy's investigative book, "The Lizard King: The True Crimes and Passions of the World’s Greatest Reptile Smugglers," and aims to highlight the destructive impact of the illegal wildlife trade on biodiversity and conservation efforts globally.