6 x 1 hour episodes.
Political. Reflexive. Complex.
This series focuses on the role and effect that media coverage has had on American trials, both civil and criminal. Whilst it could be said the series itself buys into the sensationalism, voyeurism, and exploitation that it is criticising, it is so obviously mentioned that it must be aware of this, and is instead reflexive. Throughout the series, the media plays a role more in some cases than others. Sometimes it is a passive creature, being used by one of the parties to sway jurors or to gauge public opinion. Other times it is much more active in its representation of a trial, a victim or defendant, and is therefore held more responsible. The series could be more insightful to non-American viewers who do not have court TV or open courts in the same way as the US.
The series stays engaging throughout the 6 episodes by focusing on the narrative and storytelling aspects of the law. In most cases, it is the side that creates the most interesting story for the jury that ends up being successful. Furthermore, it keeps the viewer captured by engages with the complexities behind the cases rather than just the facts themselves. Trial by Media considers the concept of ‘truth”, in trials, documentary, and any other media representation. Furthermore, the series covers many issues, even within single episodes, showing the true intersectionality of society: race, immigration, mental health, class, gender, feminism. All of this culminates in a necessary and entertaining documentary series.
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