Watch Love & Death

Love & Death is a true crime series on HBO Max that delves into the murder case of Betty Gore in Wylie, Texas in 1980. The series is based on the book Evidence of Love: A True Story of Passion and Death in the Suburbs, by John Bloom and Jim Atkinson. The show depicts how the seemingly perfect life of Betty, a housewife and mother of two, is torn apart when she is brutally murdered in her own home. The police investigation leads to her friend, Candy Montgomery, who confesses to the crime. The show focuses on the events leading up to the murder, the trial, and the aftermath that followed.

The series explores the complex relationship between Betty and Candy, who were once close friends. It delves into their personal lives, revealing the secrets and tensions that ultimately lead to Betty's death. The show presents interviews with people who knew both women well, including family members, friends, and investigators who were involved in the case.

Love & Death provides a fascinating look into the criminal justice system of the 1980s, as well as the social norms of small-town America at the time. The show highlights the patriarchal attitudes that were prevalent in the area, as well as the influence of the church and the community on the lives of the people involved.

The series also examines the impact of the media coverage on the case, which became a national sensation at the time. The show presents archival footage from news broadcasts and interviews with reporters who covered the case. It provides a glimpse into how the media can affect a trial and influence public opinion.

The show's production values are impressive. The cinematography is of a high standard, and the attention to detail in the costumes and set design helps transport the viewer back to the early 1980s. The show's score is evocative, enhancing the mood and tense atmosphere of the story.

The acting in Love & Death is excellent. Elizabeth Olsen, who plays Candy Montgomery, delivers a standout performance, capturing the character's contradictions and complexities. Her portrayal is nuanced and compelling, making the viewer question whether Candy is a victim or a perpetrator.

The show also features strong performances from the supporting cast, including Jesse Plemons, who plays Betty's husband, and Patrick Fugit, who plays the lead investigator in the case. The actors convey the emotional turmoil of the characters as they grapple with the shock and trauma of the murder.

Love & Death is a gripping true-crime story that will keep viewers engaged throughout its five-episode run. The show's attention to detail, production values, and excellent performances make it a worthy addition to the genre. The series offers a thought-provoking commentary on the social mores of a bygone era and presents a cautionary tale of the danger of suppressing one's desires and the consequences of betraying a friend.

In conclusion, Love & Death is a must-watch for true-crime aficionados who are interested in unraveling the mysteries of a notorious murder case that rocked America in the 1980s. The series offers a fascinating exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the dark side of human nature. It is a compelling and thought-provoking show that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Love & Death is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between April 27, 2023 and on HBO Max