66 reviews
Just finished the entire series. This was such a good watch!! At first it didn't sound interesting enough, but after a few episodes of seeing bits and pieces while my husband watched, I was hooked.
I won't give away any spoilers, but this show basically did the amount of investigative research that you'd hope police detectives would do (but apparently, in this case, didn't). Jarecki and his team did a wonderful job... I don't know how this could have been any better. Also love the scenes and music in the beginning credits (Fresh Blood, by Eels).
The last two episodes are just breathtaking. I don't think anyone expected the outcome of this show when they first watched (or started filming)!
This show definitely deserves some Emmys next year!!
I won't give away any spoilers, but this show basically did the amount of investigative research that you'd hope police detectives would do (but apparently, in this case, didn't). Jarecki and his team did a wonderful job... I don't know how this could have been any better. Also love the scenes and music in the beginning credits (Fresh Blood, by Eels).
The last two episodes are just breathtaking. I don't think anyone expected the outcome of this show when they first watched (or started filming)!
This show definitely deserves some Emmys next year!!
- tonosov-51238
- Sep 30, 2023
- Permalink
- kumpfcorey
- Apr 13, 2015
- Permalink
This show is fantastic...
i can't help but compare it to making a murderer...while i feel like it lacks the suspense and the shock value of making a murderer...it still is as profound and hard-hitting...
the story is built up slowly and the people being interviewed are introduced seamlessly at a point where their contribution is needed...it's very well done...
while it does feel like it wasn't wrapped up very well...the note on which it ends is very sublime...leaving you with questions and you're left wondering and shocked and puzzled...
the tone is well-suited...the pacing is great...it's very well told...what more can i say really...it's phenomenal!!
It moves you...and it tells the story of the man very well...just how a proper documentary can...there's hardly any flaws here...that's how good it is...
i can't help but compare it to making a murderer...while i feel like it lacks the suspense and the shock value of making a murderer...it still is as profound and hard-hitting...
the story is built up slowly and the people being interviewed are introduced seamlessly at a point where their contribution is needed...it's very well done...
while it does feel like it wasn't wrapped up very well...the note on which it ends is very sublime...leaving you with questions and you're left wondering and shocked and puzzled...
the tone is well-suited...the pacing is great...it's very well told...what more can i say really...it's phenomenal!!
It moves you...and it tells the story of the man very well...just how a proper documentary can...there's hardly any flaws here...that's how good it is...
- angelorwez
- Mar 3, 2023
- Permalink
I don't write reviews that often,but i had to say something about this.It made me literally jump out of my skin,the whole time i was watching it.I can't even begin to explain what i liked the most.I guess i'll begin with the authenticity.It was like watching a fantastic crime TV show,but without the great looking actors.Imagine watching a TV show that combines True Detective,The Killing,CSI,Twin Peaks and all your favorite crime shows of all time(But,the most disturbing part is that this is 100% REAL).Secondly,the storyline was so well constructed.Began very slow and then it got more and more thrilling.I don't wanna say too much about the documentary,because i want you to experience it for yourself and just think about the whole case and draw your own conclusion.This is a must-watch.
- nikita-chikita
- Jun 17, 2015
- Permalink
This is the BEST true crime documentary I have EVER seen!! It starts off slowly, but don't give up - stick with it all the way, get the full story, and you won't be disappointed - the ending is explosive!! (Don't look it up beforehand, just go in cold and watch it - you'll see the documentary makers' true skill).
- ar_brierley
- Oct 12, 2019
- Permalink
- paul-allaer
- May 17, 2020
- Permalink
- JohnCritic
- Jun 27, 2023
- Permalink
- ThomasDrufke
- May 16, 2015
- Permalink
Almost perfectly done, this documentary series has a solid base on its impeccable research and in the interviews with Robert Durst, the man with a disturbed personality who is, at the same time, incredibly charismatic. Episode by episode, we dive more deeply in the mind of this troubled man and also in the doubt that surrounds his actions. Producer Andrew Jarecki knew how to "feed" the spectator with the information in the correct pace, without spoiling the upcoming revelations and lead a true investigation that enlightened things that happened 30 years ago. If you like crime stories, you most definitely should watch. You'll not believe this is a real story being portrayed on the screen!
This is one of those movies\docs, that you'll find yourself waiting and crying for more and more ...still, you'll have the chance to drown into six episodes of a pure crime and suspense gem. I am I fan of shows such as True Detective, Fargo, etc, but this one, you'll have to see with a different eye, the eye that allow you to see through the detectives, director and, the killers eye ! Something that I do believe was never done before and that's what keeps this show one (or a thousand)steps further.Every time i do the shows review is because i do believe some shows are more than just good or great, they are imperative to watch,because we cannot pass through life without paying attention to some things that are really worth to be noticed, a lot of rubbish is dumped on TV ,but a lot of art is also available , you just have to make a choice,and i really want you to chose this one here ;)
- Lippi_1982
- Aug 13, 2015
- Permalink
Murder mysteries as a genre, so it seems, has gained significant momentum over the past few years. Netflix acts as an active supporter of the genre seeing it has recently produced series like The Keepers which proved extremely succesful. The Jinx is yet another mystery crime documentary series which explores multiple murder cases and the people possibly involved in it. This tendency therefore quickly brings to mind a documentary like A Thin Blue Line which, in my opinion, could be seen as the blueprint for these new Netflix series.
What the abovementioned documentaries all have in common is its use of reenactments resulting in an overt dramatization of the displayed themes and storylines. Yet whereas normally the use of reenactments in documentaries might seem questionable, it is within these documentaries that I believe it serves as to illustrate more clearly the inconsistencies surrounding the given suspects and stories. So instead of using it as a way to show what (theoretically) has happened according to the filmmakers, it rather serves as a tool to communicate the flaws surrounding the existing theories about the given events. Its used as a means to pose questions, not answers.
It is for this reason that, in my opinion, the documentaries' credibility is by no means undermined. Moreover, further research concerning any of these documentaries does not result in contradictory findings as is the case with another murder mystery documentary series produced by Netflix; Making a Murderer. Surrounded by inconsistencies, irregularities and questionable evidence this documentary proofed to have taken a few liberties with their findings.
The Jinx, as noted, does however build a surprisingly strong case against Robert Durst without its evidence being disputed by other sources. And its not like these other sources don't get the oppurtunity to present the case in favor of Robert Durst. Even Durst himself has the oppurtunity to explain what has happened and how he was (or wans't) involved. However during the six-episode series a pattern slowly emerges which undeniably lead to one single conclusion.
The documentary surely offers an interesting portrayal of a man caught up in allegations and trials. Furthermore it offers psychological insight into a man who has been subject of many investigations in the past 30 years. And last but not least I find the images produced to be of absolute importance for the world to see. That being said I must conclude that its the story which makes it a great documentary. Not by way of its storytelling for it mostly shows talking-heads, offers little archive material of evidence, and fails to capture the gruesomeness to some extent. Nonetheless the story itself intriques and just screams to be told. Hopefully it is not too late.
What the abovementioned documentaries all have in common is its use of reenactments resulting in an overt dramatization of the displayed themes and storylines. Yet whereas normally the use of reenactments in documentaries might seem questionable, it is within these documentaries that I believe it serves as to illustrate more clearly the inconsistencies surrounding the given suspects and stories. So instead of using it as a way to show what (theoretically) has happened according to the filmmakers, it rather serves as a tool to communicate the flaws surrounding the existing theories about the given events. Its used as a means to pose questions, not answers.
It is for this reason that, in my opinion, the documentaries' credibility is by no means undermined. Moreover, further research concerning any of these documentaries does not result in contradictory findings as is the case with another murder mystery documentary series produced by Netflix; Making a Murderer. Surrounded by inconsistencies, irregularities and questionable evidence this documentary proofed to have taken a few liberties with their findings.
The Jinx, as noted, does however build a surprisingly strong case against Robert Durst without its evidence being disputed by other sources. And its not like these other sources don't get the oppurtunity to present the case in favor of Robert Durst. Even Durst himself has the oppurtunity to explain what has happened and how he was (or wans't) involved. However during the six-episode series a pattern slowly emerges which undeniably lead to one single conclusion.
The documentary surely offers an interesting portrayal of a man caught up in allegations and trials. Furthermore it offers psychological insight into a man who has been subject of many investigations in the past 30 years. And last but not least I find the images produced to be of absolute importance for the world to see. That being said I must conclude that its the story which makes it a great documentary. Not by way of its storytelling for it mostly shows talking-heads, offers little archive material of evidence, and fails to capture the gruesomeness to some extent. Nonetheless the story itself intriques and just screams to be told. Hopefully it is not too late.
- pdiepersloot
- Mar 18, 2018
- Permalink
- shanayneigh
- Dec 17, 2015
- Permalink
The Jinx is a great show. I am not American, and I had never heard about the case nor the Durst family before this show. Going in knowing nothing led to some of the revelations being really shocking. The fact that the show is so exciting is at least partly due to the case itself being absolutely bonkers on many levels.
But what makes it more exciting is the wealth of information, people and footage they got access to. You really felt that you were thrown into the middle of an investigation, and saw the case unraveling in front of you. And Robert Dust is a compelling figure. It's difficult to place him as either an eccentric evil genius, or a lucky loony. Probably he is somewhere in the middle. Some of the stuff he does seems more like a bumbling fool than an educated criminal, while other things seems really well thought out. It keeps you on the edge of your seat. His mannerisms and just his character in general is also perfect for a show like this. Because despite everything: He can be pretty funny.
So, as entertainment it was really good. That said: I did not like the reenactments. It felt cheap and out of place, and was not needed for the documentary. There were other parts that should have been left out as well, like when they start annoying a man working security in one of the Durst buildings.
But I guess one of the more important questions to ask yourself here is: should journalism go more in this direction? Because this was, have no doubt about it, made to entertain. Here's my initial thoughts: Except the literal victims here, there are no other victims of this show that I can think of. The friends and family of both victims and others involved seems to have gotten their say, or at least had the chance to. The producers did a really good job researching and investigating the case, and the presentation seems truthful enough. The focus on Robert never turns him entirely into a movie character. Througot the series you start to understand him more as a human being. Or at least the producers impression of him. For now I am in the position that journalism is probably going to go more in this direction, but it is a dangerous path, for it can very easily focus too much on the entertainment and to little on the responsibility of a journalist presenting a case.
But what makes it more exciting is the wealth of information, people and footage they got access to. You really felt that you were thrown into the middle of an investigation, and saw the case unraveling in front of you. And Robert Dust is a compelling figure. It's difficult to place him as either an eccentric evil genius, or a lucky loony. Probably he is somewhere in the middle. Some of the stuff he does seems more like a bumbling fool than an educated criminal, while other things seems really well thought out. It keeps you on the edge of your seat. His mannerisms and just his character in general is also perfect for a show like this. Because despite everything: He can be pretty funny.
So, as entertainment it was really good. That said: I did not like the reenactments. It felt cheap and out of place, and was not needed for the documentary. There were other parts that should have been left out as well, like when they start annoying a man working security in one of the Durst buildings.
But I guess one of the more important questions to ask yourself here is: should journalism go more in this direction? Because this was, have no doubt about it, made to entertain. Here's my initial thoughts: Except the literal victims here, there are no other victims of this show that I can think of. The friends and family of both victims and others involved seems to have gotten their say, or at least had the chance to. The producers did a really good job researching and investigating the case, and the presentation seems truthful enough. The focus on Robert never turns him entirely into a movie character. Througot the series you start to understand him more as a human being. Or at least the producers impression of him. For now I am in the position that journalism is probably going to go more in this direction, but it is a dangerous path, for it can very easily focus too much on the entertainment and to little on the responsibility of a journalist presenting a case.
This is a documentary which follows Andrew Jarecki, as he pulls together the story of Robert Durst, who is suspected of killing his wife along with two others.
Robert Durst is part of the Durst family, a prominent property investment force in New York. Andrew Jarecki interviews Robert Durst extensively, along with other key players. He and his team are party to the uncovering of new evidence for these old crimes.
Amazingly, the tension is built and sustained then built again and again - I am sure whether to congratulate Andrew Jarecki as incredibly lucky for the revelations he gets to reveal, or his mastery as a film maker.
I believe that this series is a rare combination of both.
Highly recommended.
Robert Durst is part of the Durst family, a prominent property investment force in New York. Andrew Jarecki interviews Robert Durst extensively, along with other key players. He and his team are party to the uncovering of new evidence for these old crimes.
Amazingly, the tension is built and sustained then built again and again - I am sure whether to congratulate Andrew Jarecki as incredibly lucky for the revelations he gets to reveal, or his mastery as a film maker.
I believe that this series is a rare combination of both.
Highly recommended.
- quaygarrett
- May 18, 2019
- Permalink
- scottoerlemans
- Mar 26, 2015
- Permalink
A 4.5 hours HBO investigation/court documentary split into 6 episodes (or chapters).
This is a fascinating documentary by Andrew Jarecki, who also directed "Capturing the Friedmans (2003)" - one of the best court documentaries I've ever seen. It also tells the real life story of the man on which the movie "All Good Things (2010)", also directed by Jarecki, is loosely based.
Like in two other amazing investigation/court documentaries - those about serial killer Aileen Wuornos and the West Memphis Three - this is another example where the filmmaker finds himself getting involved in the story and having a direct and major affect on the case.
If you haven't heard about this in the news, you might want to avoid reading about the case before watching the documentary - although I did read about it (and then recalled the news several months ago) and it didn't spoil the fascination of watching it.
The documentary follows the life of Robert Durst, who is the son of the late Seymour Durst, one of New York's richest real estate investors and developers. For years Robert has been suspected of killing 3 people: His wife, his female friend, and his neighbor. However, he always managed to "walk between the drops without getting wet".
The film has tons of material, showing old footage, evidence, interviews with the people, reenactment of events, actual footage from court,and amazing of all - interviews and full cooperation from Robert Durst himself.
Each episode focuses mainly on one thing. Starting from episode 4 you'll be glued to your chair. Episode 5 is where the filmmakers themselves are getting into their own documentary and becoming a part of it. I don't want to "spoil" anything for you, but episode 6 is simply amazing. You can't invent stuff like that. The very last minute is simply something that is taken from the movies.
This is a fascinating documentary by Andrew Jarecki, who also directed "Capturing the Friedmans (2003)" - one of the best court documentaries I've ever seen. It also tells the real life story of the man on which the movie "All Good Things (2010)", also directed by Jarecki, is loosely based.
Like in two other amazing investigation/court documentaries - those about serial killer Aileen Wuornos and the West Memphis Three - this is another example where the filmmaker finds himself getting involved in the story and having a direct and major affect on the case.
If you haven't heard about this in the news, you might want to avoid reading about the case before watching the documentary - although I did read about it (and then recalled the news several months ago) and it didn't spoil the fascination of watching it.
The documentary follows the life of Robert Durst, who is the son of the late Seymour Durst, one of New York's richest real estate investors and developers. For years Robert has been suspected of killing 3 people: His wife, his female friend, and his neighbor. However, he always managed to "walk between the drops without getting wet".
The film has tons of material, showing old footage, evidence, interviews with the people, reenactment of events, actual footage from court,and amazing of all - interviews and full cooperation from Robert Durst himself.
Each episode focuses mainly on one thing. Starting from episode 4 you'll be glued to your chair. Episode 5 is where the filmmakers themselves are getting into their own documentary and becoming a part of it. I don't want to "spoil" anything for you, but episode 6 is simply amazing. You can't invent stuff like that. The very last minute is simply something that is taken from the movies.
The Jinx is a well-researched and excellently-produced crime documentary. It recreates the principal facts of the cases that Robert Durst was charged with and using interviews with a large array of individuals pertinent to those cases or associated with the principal personalities, gives a first-hand account from multiple perspectives. The show also includes footage from courtrooms and exhibits abundant case-related evidence.
While very entertaining, The Jinx does take some important liberties in its depiction. For instance, it was revealed that the concluding scene of the series was doctored by the director and producers to provide a more shocking finale. This artistic license is especially inappropriate when it comes to documentaries related to real-life ongoing criminal cases (as in this case) since it can influence perception to a large extent. By choosing whom to interview, what parts of those interviews to present and what tone to set in those snippets, it is uncertain if we as the audience get the real picture or are instead given an artificial version to shock, thrill and entertain. Hence, it may be unwise to treat the show's portrayal of events and characters as gospel truth.
Much has happened to Robert Durst since the time this documentary was made: he was convicted in 2021 of Susan Berman's murder and is facing new murder charges related to the alleged death of his missing wife Kathleen McCormack. But even if the documentary becomes outdated in those regards, it makes for an interesting watch to learn about the cases, the involved individuals, the procedural steps (both good and bad), and the power of the media in criminal law enforcement.
While very entertaining, The Jinx does take some important liberties in its depiction. For instance, it was revealed that the concluding scene of the series was doctored by the director and producers to provide a more shocking finale. This artistic license is especially inappropriate when it comes to documentaries related to real-life ongoing criminal cases (as in this case) since it can influence perception to a large extent. By choosing whom to interview, what parts of those interviews to present and what tone to set in those snippets, it is uncertain if we as the audience get the real picture or are instead given an artificial version to shock, thrill and entertain. Hence, it may be unwise to treat the show's portrayal of events and characters as gospel truth.
Much has happened to Robert Durst since the time this documentary was made: he was convicted in 2021 of Susan Berman's murder and is facing new murder charges related to the alleged death of his missing wife Kathleen McCormack. But even if the documentary becomes outdated in those regards, it makes for an interesting watch to learn about the cases, the involved individuals, the procedural steps (both good and bad), and the power of the media in criminal law enforcement.
The Jinx; A documentary about the deaths of a handful of people starring the main suspect who is interviewed after having served time for one of the killings as he maintains his innocence.
Stretched out over six 45-minutes episodes, the documentary basically tells the story of Robert Durst's life with Durst himself collaborating the story entirely apart from having anything to do with the deaths and killings that make the story interesting. After three episodes, this repetitive dynamic becomes quite a drag.
Glued together with archive footage and private family footage of the man's past, we basically get treated to the blather of people involved in Durst's life or in the lives of the people he presumably killed and law enforcement officials involved in the cases. The term blather is not used lightly here. There is surprisingly little sappiness to be found in the comments made. The documentary never makes a case for why the viewer should care about any of these people or their viewpoints, or what Durst himself has to say or lie about the deaths of the victims.
People get killed all the time, Durst very probably was involved in all of the cases presented, yet denies this. It shouldn't take 6 plodding episodes to document this.
4/10
Stretched out over six 45-minutes episodes, the documentary basically tells the story of Robert Durst's life with Durst himself collaborating the story entirely apart from having anything to do with the deaths and killings that make the story interesting. After three episodes, this repetitive dynamic becomes quite a drag.
Glued together with archive footage and private family footage of the man's past, we basically get treated to the blather of people involved in Durst's life or in the lives of the people he presumably killed and law enforcement officials involved in the cases. The term blather is not used lightly here. There is surprisingly little sappiness to be found in the comments made. The documentary never makes a case for why the viewer should care about any of these people or their viewpoints, or what Durst himself has to say or lie about the deaths of the victims.
People get killed all the time, Durst very probably was involved in all of the cases presented, yet denies this. It shouldn't take 6 plodding episodes to document this.
4/10
- CineCritic2517
- Nov 15, 2016
- Permalink
This is probably one of the best real crime docu-series out there. At least since documentaries like "Paradise Lost" or "The Staircase", we should know how important this genre has become, solving a lot of cases. Really recommend this one.
- soulchild-45229
- Mar 9, 2022
- Permalink
- lawrelwill
- Jun 2, 2017
- Permalink