Cooper Koch’s Shocking Horror Film Role Revealed After Menendez Brothers Success: Fans React to ‘Drugs, Bugs, and Hallucinations!’

Cooper Koch, known for his compelling performance as Erik Menendez in Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series “Monsters,” has a surprising film history that includes a role in a disturbing indie horror flick. Before gaining fame with the Menendez Brothers narrative, Koch starred in the 2022 body horror film titled “Swallowed,” directed by Carter Smith. This unsettling film explores a chaotic drug smuggling incident that spirals out of control, featuring a mix of drugs, bugs, and a nightmarish turn of events.

“Swallowed” has drawn attention for its intense and unsettling content, earning an 82 percent critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers have praised Koch for being the standout performer in the film, which some viewers found to be profoundly disturbing. The narrative follows Koch’s character, Benjamin, and his friend Dom as they embark on a final night of celebration before Benjamin moves to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the adult entertainment industry. The duo unwittingly consumes dangerous drug packets, leading to a horrifying ordeal that forces them to confront their worst fears.

Despite the shocking nature of “Swallowed,” it’s Koch’s role as Erik Menendez that continues to grip Hollywood’s attention weeks after the show debuted. Fans of the show have sought out Koch’s earlier work, resulting in a mix of intrigue and shock regarding his performance in this gritty horror film.

In his portrayal of Erik Menendez, Koch has received widespread acclaim, and his experience deepened when he had the unique opportunity to meet the real Erik Menendez after the show’s release. Koch remarked on how preparing for the role fostered a strong connection to Erik, expressing admiration for the complexities of his character and the personal journey behind the infamous case.

As the legal narrative surrounding Erik Menendez evolves, with new evidence suggesting a troubling family dynamic, Koch’s portrayal offers both a dramatic retelling of history and glimpses into the darker aspects of human experiences. With discussions about potential freedom for Erik and Lyle Menendez gaining traction, Koch’s role serves as a powerful reflection on the stories of those often marginalized by society.

Cooper Koch’s trajectory from an indie horror film to a prominent role in a major Netflix series is a testament to the complexities and surprises of an evolving career in Hollywood.