One of the most gripping murder cases of the 21st century is coming to life once again. This time, it’s being showcased through the eyes of documentarian Skye Borgman in her latest Netflix docuseries, ‘American Murder: Laci Peterson’. From younger viewers to those who remember the case well, this series promises to be a riveting watch for everyone.
Dusting Off a Two Decade-Old Murder Mystery
The tragic tale that unfolded 20 years ago continues to resonate deeply today. In 2002, Scott Peterson was found guilty of murdering his wife, Laci Peterson who was 26 years old and expecting a child named Conner. Laci and Conner’s bodies washed up along the beaches of San Francisco Bay, months after disappearing on Christmas Eve. Despite being in prison for these heinous crimes, Scott Peterson still claims he’s innocent. This infamous crime is now the feature story of a fresh three-part docuseries available on Netflix as of Wednesday.
Director Skye Borgman isn’t new to the true crime scene. Having successfully helmed projects like 2017’s ‘Abducted in Plain Sight’, 2021’s ‘Dead Asleep’, and 2022’s ‘Girl in the Picture’, she brings a seasoned perspective to this crime docuseries. Borgman is adamant about sticking to the facts rather than retelling the case in a new light for Generation Z, who might be new to the story.
Staying True to the Facts
Borgman hammers home the importance of referencing police reports and revisiting lived experiences of the people involved. She doesn’t want to add unnecessary spin to the story but simply aims to present the facts as they were. She is not too caught up with whether the viewers are familiar with Laci Peterson’s story, as the universal themes at the heart of the documentary are the focus.
She emphasizes the universal aspects of the story, particularly the theme of family. Borgman believes the narrative about a family that’s shattered and then finds a way to come together through shared trauma transcends generations.
What’s New About the Laci Peterson Case?
In an interview, Borgman explains why the present is an apt time for rediscovering the Laci Peterson saga. She draws attention to the perpetuating issue of domestic violence against women, something that the Peterson case unsettlingly highlights. Borgman also gives insights into the emotionally charged conversations she held with Scott Peterson from prison.
It’s noteworthy that the makers of the docuseries attempted to present a balanced portrayal that included perspectives of those who believe in Scott Peterson’s innocence. This approach is intended to allow viewers to form their own opinions based on the facts presented.
Challenges of Producing a Murder Docuseries
When asked about the challenges faced when creating this series, Borgman admits that dealing with the loss of a woman and her unborn child is nerve-wracking. She often needs to detach herself emotionally to focus on the practical aspects of production. Yet, at times, the reality of the tragic event strikes, reminding her of the significant impact such a death has on people across the nation.
In summary, ‘American Murder: Laci Peterson’, spearheaded by Skye Borgman, is a hard-hitting exploration of a tragic crime from the recent past. Regardless of familiarity with the Peterson case, this new docuseries on Netflix promises to deliver an emotional and thought-provoking experience for all viewers.
