The Best Documentaries on the O.J. Simpson Murder Case and Trial
Legal dramas and true crime narratives have often captured the public's imagination, especially when it comes to the O.J. Simpson trial. The case is infamous for its high visibility and dramatic twists and turns. Among the numerous documentaries and series that have covered the case, Serpents Rising and OJ: Made in America stand out as detailed and insightful. Below, we explore why these documentaries are worth watching.
Serpents Rising: Unveiling the Truth
Serpents Rising is considered by many as the best documentary on the O.J. Simpson case, not only because of its comprehensive coverage but also due to its investigative approach. The film provides a gritty and unfiltered look into the deep-seated issues and biases that permeated the case. It exposes the lies embedded within the tabloids and offers an alternative narrative, presenting the raw and unvarnished truth.
One of the unique aspects of Serpents Rising is its focus on the journey of the investigators from the Ocean Medical Investigative Group (OMIG). These investigators dug deep into the case to uncover the inconsistencies and controversies in the evidence that was presented to the public. This documentary is not polished or glossy; rather, it is raw and documentary-style, capturing the essence of the investigation as it happened.
For those interested in an unfiltered look at the Simpson case, Serpents Rising can be streamed on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video. Although it has some rough edges, the content it provides is invaluable to anyone seeking the truth behind the case. It covers a wide range of issues, from the false narratives sold to the public to the irregularities in the evidence. The documentary is available on various platforms, including pay-per-view services in North America and video on demand in Europe and Asia.
OJ: Made in America: A Comprehensive Overview
OJ: Made in America is another highly recommended documentary series. This five-part series spans a total of eight hours, making it a substantial and compelling watch. The series provides a comprehensive overview of the case, tracing the trajectory of O.J. Simpson, his life and friends, as well as the history of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The series delves into the complexities of the trial, exploring how tabloid news mixed with real news, and how the jury's perception was influenced. By breaking down the case into manageable parts, the series allows viewers to absorb the information in detail, making it easier to follow the intricate details of the trial. The series is available on Amazon Prime Video and other streaming platforms, and it's a testament to the enduring fascination with this iconic case.
Books and Additional Resources
For those who prefer to read, there are numerous books that offer insights into the O.J. Simpson case. American Tragedy by Lawrence Schiller, for example, is an excellent resource that provides a nuanced view of the case. Other notable reads include The Run by Wash Park Press and Parole Impossible by Philippe Rattelet. These books, along with documentaries like Serpents Rising and series like OJ: Made in America, offer a more balanced perspective on the case.
Another documentary worth watching is ESPN’s O.J. The Untold Story. This series provides a detailed background of O.J. Simpson's life and his relationships, offering a more personal and human side to the trial. It's important to note that media biases exist, and the same entities that trash a convicted defendant often become defenders when the same person is exonerated later due to evident mistakes.
Conclusion
The O.J. Simpson case continues to captivate the public, with its complex legal and social implications. Documentaries such as Serpents Rising and OJ: Made in America provide valuable insights into the case, offering a more unbiased and in-depth look at the trial. For a comprehensive understanding of the event, it's best to consult multiple sources, thereby distinguishing fact from fiction.