Watch A Wilderness of Error
- TV-MA
- 2020
- 1 Season
-
6.5 (1,132)
A Wilderness of Error is a true-crime documentary series that premiered on FX on September 25, 2020. The show is based on a book of the same name, written by Errol Morris, which chronicles the story of Jeffery MacDonald, a former Green Beret who was convicted of murdering his pregnant wife and two young daughters in their home in 1970.
The series uses archival footage, reenactments, and interviews with key players in the case to explore the evidence against MacDonald and the various conspiracy theories that have emerged since his conviction. Morris approaches the case from a journalistic perspective, analyzing the media coverage of the trial and the impact it had on public opinion.
The first episode of the series introduces viewers to MacDonald and the crime scene, which was initially believed to be the work of a group of hippies. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that MacDonald himself is the main suspect. The series delves into the trial, which was characterized by conflicting testimony and a lack of physical evidence.
Morris interviews MacDonald's defense team, including lead attorney Bernard Segal, as well as journalists who covered the trial. The series also examines MacDonald's relationship with famed author Joe McGinness, who wrote a book about the case that was later turned into a TV movie.
In addition to revisiting the trial, A Wilderness of Error explores the various conspiracy theories that have emerged over the years. Some people believe MacDonald is innocent and was framed by government officials who were trying to cover up his involvement in a drug trafficking ring. Others believe that MacDonald's guilt was covered up by wealthy and influential people who had ties to the military.
One of the series' strengths is its attention to detail. Morris presents a wealth of information, including crime scene photos and autopsy reports, which allows viewers to draw their own conclusions about MacDonald's guilt or innocence. However, the series doesn't take a definitive stance on the case, instead leaving it up to viewers to decide what they believe.
The series also explores the impact the trial and subsequent media coverage had on the families of MacDonald's victims. Morris interviews various family members, who express differing opinions on whether or not MacDonald is guilty. The series presents a complex portrait of a case that has fascinated true crime enthusiasts for decades.
A Wilderness of Error has received positive reviews for its in-depth exploration of the case and the storytelling skills of Morris, who is a renowned documentary filmmaker. The series manages to shed new light on a case that has been covered extensively over the years.
Overall, A Wilderness of Error is a gripping and thought-provoking true-crime series that offers a fresh perspective on a notorious case. Whether you're a true crime junkie or just looking for an engaging new series to watch, A Wilderness of Error is definitely worth checking out.
A Wilderness of Error is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between September 25, 2020 and on FX