[usr 5]
Filmed over a 10-year period, Steven Avery, a DNA exoneree who, while in the midst of exposing corruption in local law enforcement, finds himself the prime suspect in a grisly new crime.
If you have been watching from the beginning, you know that “Making a Murderer” is a real-life series that follows the story of Steven Avery who was wrongly convicted of attempted murder and sexual assault back in 1985, serving 18 years then being released. Arrested for a second time 2 years later, he is fighting to get out of prison stating that he is innocent. He and nephew Brendan Dassey were convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Theresa Holbach.
“Making a Murderer: Part 2” digs deeper into the case when Defense Attorney Kathleen Zellner comes on board. Kathleen is infamous for turning over wrongful convictions, so when she signs on to defend Steven Avery, she plans to leave no stone unturned. Kathleen reenacts the entire murder to precisely reveal any evidence that was left out prior. She notices a lot of holes in the story of how Avery’s blood landed in different areas of Theresa’s vehicle the day of the murder. What she finds will shock you and it is crucial for the defense.
I was completely drawn into this story immediately because I am addicted to anything dealing with figuring out murders but having not known about the case or having seen part one of the show, it had me with the opening scene. I had so many questions, I didn’t know what to think but with each piece of information presented, it started to slowly fall together. I think Kathleen is going to crack this case open no matter what she finds. She is strong and extremely detailed and I think she will quickly find out if her client is lying about being innocent or he was wrongfully convicted.
This show is exciting, magnetic, but scary and sad. It makes you think about all of the things that could happen in your everyday life. You feel so much for the victim because all eyes are on whether or not Avery and Dassey are innocent or guilty. There is not much focus on the family’s aftermath of Theresa’s death which I find heartbreaking.
At the Q&A after the screening, filmmakers Moira Demos and Laura Ricciardi said that they got the inspiration for the series from wondering how the legal sides look like post-conviction, with this type of case. They wanted to give the audience the experience of being right there in that courtroom. They had no idea they were going to make a second season but they always knew that story wasn’t over. They explained that season 2 challenges you to learn and understand the answers as you go. They said it was not easy making this show, admitted to having a lot of challenges post-production, mainly because of hiring new people who weren’t as knowledgeable. Also, it was difficult to retain people because the project was ongoing for so many years that people just decided to move on. An amazing series and something everyone can’t stop talking about!
Now available to stream on Netflix
