American Murder: The Family Next Door (2020) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“American Murder: The Family Next Door,” directed by Jenny Popplewell and released in 2020, is a gripping true crime documentary that delves into the tragic and shocking case of the Watts family. The film, which debuted on Netflix, utilizes a wealth of real footage, including social media posts, home videos, and police body cam footage, to piece together the events leading up to the disappearance and murder of Shanann Watts and her two daughters, Bella and Celeste. This review explores the film’s content, reception, and where you can stream or purchase it online.
Plot Overview
“American Murder: The Family Next Door” investigates the disappearance of Shanann Watts and her two young daughters in August 2018 from their home in Frederick, Colorado. The documentary is centered around the investigation that follows the family’s sudden disappearance and the subsequent arrest and confession of Chris Watts, Shanann’s husband, who is revealed to be the perpetrator.
The film unfolds through a mixture of home video footage, social media updates, and raw police investigation material. Shanann is portrayed as a devoted mother and wife who was active on social media, frequently sharing updates about her family and their lives. The documentary captures her vibrant personality and the deep bond she had with her children.
As the story progresses, the documentary reveals the chilling details of Chris Watts’ crime, including his deceitful behavior and the dark truths behind his seemingly perfect family life. The film also highlights the emotional toll on Shanann’s family and the community as they grapple with the horrific loss.
The use of real-time footage and personal media creates an immersive and unsettling experience, offering viewers an intimate look at the lives affected by this tragedy. The documentary’s narrative is constructed to unfold the case with a focus on both the personal and criminal aspects of the story.
Critical Reception
“American Murder: The Family Next Door” received praise for its poignant and unsettling portrayal of the Watts family tragedy. Critics and audiences appreciated the film’s use of real footage, which added a layer of authenticity and immediacy to the story. The documentary was noted for its emotional impact, drawing viewers into the personal and disturbing details of the case.
The film’s approach to storytelling, by utilizing social media and home video clips, was commended for providing a comprehensive view of the Watts family’s life and the events leading up to the crime. However, some critics felt that the documentary’s reliance on visual and emotional impact might overshadow the broader context of the case, focusing heavily on the shock value of the footage.
Overall, “American Murder: The Family Next Door” was recognized as a powerful and affecting true crime documentary that offers a harrowing look into a devastating real-life story. It sparked conversations about the nature of true crime media and the ethical implications of depicting real tragedies.
Where to Watch “American Murder: The Family Next Door” Online
As of 2024, “American Murder: The Family Next Door” is available exclusively on Netflix. This streaming platform provides access to the documentary as part of its extensive library of films and series.
Streaming Platform
- Netflix: The documentary is available to stream on Netflix, which offers a subscription-based service providing access to a wide range of content, including documentaries, films, and TV shows. To watch “American Murder: The Family Next Door,” you will need a Netflix subscription. The film can be found by searching for its title in the Netflix app or website.
Other Viewing Options
Currently, “American Murder: The Family Next Door” is not available for rental or purchase on other platforms. Its availability is restricted to Netflix, making it a straightforward choice for subscribers of the streaming service.
Conclusion
“American Murder: The Family Next Door” is a compelling and emotional documentary that delves into the tragic story of the Watts family. Through its use of real footage and personal media, the film offers an intense and personal view of a devastating crime, highlighting both the individual and societal impacts of the tragedy.
If you’re interested in true crime documentaries or want to explore the Watts case in depth, “American Murder: The Family Next Door” is a powerful and thought-provoking film. With its availability on Netflix, it’s easy to access and stream this impactful documentary. Prepare for a deeply affecting experience as the film uncovers the harrowing events surrounding one of the most shocking cases of recent years.
