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Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills (1996)
Runtime: 2 hrs 30 mins
Synopsis: In 1993, three eight-year-old boys were found brutally murdered in the woods of West Memphis, Arkansas. Though the evidence suggested the masterwork and skill of a seasoned killer, the police hastily assigned the blame to three alienated boys with a predilection for heavy metal music and... In 1993, three eight-year-old boys were found brutally murdered in the woods of West Memphis, Arkansas. Though the evidence suggested the masterwork and skill of a seasoned killer, the police hastily assigned the blame to three alienated boys with a predilection for heavy metal music and black clothing. The directors' omnipresent yet unobtrusive camera draws the viewer into an intensely gripping trial and investigation, during which an atmosphere of small town "Satanic panic" and a case filled with holes reveals itself. All sides of the story are carefully explored--the emotions and opinions of victims' families, lawyers, and the boys themselves--as the trial slowly builds to its shocking outcome. The masterful editing of Berlinger and Sinofsky transforms the often dry courtroom documentary into smooth and compelling storytelling, and the most articulate of the condemned boys, Damien Echols, emerges as the fascinating centerpiece. Effective use is made of heavy metal band Metallica's early music, which gives an audio soundtrack to the alienation and hopelessness of the accused boys. Powerful and often heartwrenching, this award-winning documentary is, in the fact of its reality, more frightening, tragic, and unforgettable than many works of fiction. [More]
Genre: Education/General Interest
DVD Info
Release:
Jan 10, 2007
DVD Features:
- Region (unknown)
- Keep Case
Additional Release Material:
- Theatrical Trailer
- Filmaker Biographies
Interactive Features:
- Interactive Menus
- Scene Access
Reviews
A disturbing and incredibly difficult film to watch, but it's a fine example of documentary filmmaking done right and it'll blow your mind.
Um documento histórico chocante que, ao lado do clássico The Thin Blue Line, expõe as falhas grotescas do sistema judicial norte-americano.
Like an exploded mirror, it dazzles unexpectedly, catching all kinds of crazy angles. It is hard to watch, and beautiful.
Key details seem to be left out or skipped over, but the premise and implications are important and involving.
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by: perceptron 2/28/07


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