Murky Waters of Legal Drama

MOVIE REVIEW
Convicting A Murderer
 (adult content)

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023 –
Runtime: 10 x 45m episodes
Where To Watch: The first three episodes are live on DailyWire+, followed by one episode each Thursday after; Ep 1-2 are in front of the DailyWire+ paywall, and three onward are for members only.

RAVING REVIEW: To be entirely transparent, I’ve only screened the first three episodes of the series, so there are still seven parts to go; my opinions in the following review will be based on the content of those first three episodes and my potential thoughts of where the series may end up. As with most documentaries, I can’t guarantee the content's accuracy; these productions aren’t held to any ethics code. That being said, I was shocked; this genuinely feels (for the most part) like a heartfelt attempt at trying to get to the truth. I haven’t seen the Netflix documentary, so I can’t compare the two and what they agree and disagree on.

Okay, part of reviewing and critiquing has been pushing myself to screen and cover things that are typically out of my wheelhouse. Much of that is in the form of Martial Arts films, older Westerns, etc., but this may have been my biggest challenge so far. While I don’t throw my politics on the front of the website, it’s no secret that I’m pretty left-leaning. That’s why the moment I saw a docuseries hosted by right-wing pundit Candace Owens, I jumped on the opportunity to screen it. I want to continue pushing myself and see things I usually avoid. It was the cherry on top to see that Ben Shapiro was an executive producer on this series (because, of course, he is.) Trying to remain unbiased while watching this was incredibly challenging, especially when certain buzzwords and phrases were thrown out throughout the three episodes; it feels like Owens can’t help but still pander in this situation. With that said, I believe Owens is a brilliant individual, even if I think she’s intentionally misleading more often than not in interviews.

Venture with me, dear readers, into the cinematic underbelly of one of history's stickiest legal cases. CONVICTING A MURDERER is here to spin what we have been shown, offering a fresh take on what seemed like a done-and-dusted narrative. Remember the Netflix hit with Steven Avery painted as the unfortunate victim of legal shenanigans? Candace Owens is here to whisper, "Cut! Let’s take it from another angle."

Avery’s story is a rollercoaster, to say the least; after being imprisoned for 18 years, the magic of DNA evidence set him free from the assault charges by Penny Ann Beernsten. Although, to be fair, six of those years were on unrelated charges. But destiny thrust him back into the limelight three years later with Teresa Halbach's tragic murder in a twist that could rival any Hollywood screenplay. With CONVICTING A MURDERER, Owens picks up the megaphone to counter the narrative initially set by the 2015 documentary.

If MAKING A MURDERER was the documentary that had everyone glued to their screens, gasping at the plot twists, Owens' entry into the scene ensures those gasps turn into full-blown, jaw-dropping moments. Shovel in hand, metaphorically speaking, she digs up parts of the narrative that might have been conveniently edited out before, whether it's the perplexing blood patterns in Teresa's car or that oft-debated key with interviews from the police, the grieving families, and others who were witness to various events.

Owens doesn't hold back. As we get immersed in the saga, darker chapters of Avery’s life come into focus. Forget the cookie-cutter portrayal; the revelations here range from domestic disputes to eerie insights into his past, making Avery's sketch more intricate and shaded. I still don’t know enough about the case to understand how I feel about Avery based on facts; however, based on his past, he does seem like a dangerous individual. If he belongs behind bars for this murder, it is another story, though.

Here's the real kicker, a plot twist including unsettling allegations about Avery's unsavory actions, especially involving young friends and hints of aggression toward his significant other. As these revelations come to the forefront, we can't help but scratch our heads, wondering why specific parts of this narrative might have been left on the cutting room floor of the Netflix documentary (according to this series.)

The early episodes lay the groundwork, sprinkling hints of discrepancies in the Netflix saga. It's the kind of storytelling that ensures you're not just on the edge of your seat but practically hanging off it! A medley of archival footage and fresh takes ensures the viewer experience remains wrapped up in this true crime experience. Owens' voiceover, peppered with insights from the media, sets the mood just right. Although I will say Owens's involvement in the series so far almost feels secondary, as if she wasn’t involved in the original production.

While researching, I found Owens' interview with The Wisconsin Law Journal, which highlights the colossal power filmmakers can wield, for better or worse. The ripple effect that public opinion can have on legal outcomes isn’t lost on her, and it becomes a subtle undercurrent of the entire series. Despite my feelings about her or anyone involved in this production (or their motives), I agree; ultimately, filmmakers can do good or bad for their reasons.

All said and done, CONVICTING A MURDERER isn't just another take on this story. It’s an endeavor that encourages us to question, ponder, and possibly reevaluate a story we thought we knew by heart. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, it is always important to keep an open mind. I am interested in seeing how the remaining seven episodes wrap this story up and will return with my thoughts.

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[photo courtesy of DAILY WIRE+]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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About Post Author

Chris Jones

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