Making a Murderer

Definition

Making a Murderer is a true crime documentary series that explores the story of Steven Avery, who was wrongfully convicted of sexual assault and attempted murder, only to later be accused of a different murder after his release. The series examines the flaws within the criminal justice system and raises questions about evidence, police conduct, and the legal process, making it a significant contribution to the evolution of documentary storytelling on television.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The series was released on Netflix in December 2015 and quickly gained popularity for its compelling storytelling and controversial subject matter.
2. Making a Murderer sparked widespread debate about wrongful convictions and police misconduct, leading to calls for criminal justice reform.
3. The show's success contributed to the rise of true crime as a dominant genre in television, influencing other documentaries and series focused on real-life crimes.
4. The filmmakers employed a narrative style that allowed viewers to experience the unfolding drama through the perspectives of those involved, including Avery and his family.
5. The series led to significant media attention on Avery's case, resulting in renewed interest in his appeals for exoneration and questions about the integrity of the legal system.

Review Questions

• How does Making a Murderer illustrate the themes of wrongful conviction and police misconduct in its portrayal of Steven Avery's story?
  • Making a Murderer highlights themes of wrongful conviction and police misconduct by presenting detailed evidence of Steven Avery's initial wrongful conviction for a crime he did not commit, followed by the questionable methods used by law enforcement during his later murder investigation. The series meticulously documents inconsistencies in testimony, potential evidence tampering, and biases within the judicial process. By illustrating these issues, the show raises critical questions about accountability within the criminal justice system.
• In what ways did Making a Murderer change public perception of true crime documentaries and influence subsequent media portrayals of criminal cases?
  • Making a Murderer significantly altered public perception of true crime documentaries by blending entertainment with investigative journalism, creating an emotional connection with viewers while exposing systemic flaws in the legal system. Its impact is evident in the subsequent proliferation of similar docuseries that tackle real-life crimes with a focus on narrative depth and character development. This shift has led to a more critical audience that expects ethical storytelling and authenticity when consuming true crime content.
• Evaluate the role of narrative techniques used in Making a Murderer and how they contribute to viewer engagement and understanding of complex legal issues.
  • The narrative techniques employed in Making a Murderer, such as first-person interviews, dramatic reenactments, and chronological storytelling, enhance viewer engagement by personalizing Steven Avery's experience and making intricate legal concepts more accessible. These methods create an emotional investment for the audience as they witness the injustices faced by Avery and his family. By intertwining personal narratives with broader societal themes, the series effectively invites viewers to grapple with complex issues surrounding wrongful convictions, making them feel like active participants in the quest for truth.

Related terms

True Crime: A genre of storytelling that recounts real-life criminal cases, focusing on the events leading up to and following the crime, often highlighting the investigation and legal proceedings.

Docuseries: A documentary series format that presents factual content in episodic form, allowing for in-depth exploration of a subject over multiple episodes.

Criminal Justice System: The system of law enforcement, courts, and correctional institutions that processes and punishes those accused of crimes.