Ep 3. Son of Sam
- TV-14
- July 30, 2017
- 51 min
The Lost Tapes is an American documentary series that showcases historical moments through original footage. In the third episode of the first season, titled "Son of Sam," viewers are taken on a journey through the summer of 1977, where New York City was terrorized by a string of brutal murders.
The episode begins with interviews from witnesses and police officers who recount the rise of fear and paranoia that plagued the city during a time when the Son of Sam was on the loose. The series showcases never-before-seen footage of the police investigation, including interviews with detectives who worked tirelessly to bring the killer to justice.
Using archival footage from the time, viewers are transported back to a bygone era where the disco era was at its peak and New York City was a hub of culture, music, and fashion. However, the city was also grappling with a widespread sense of fear as the murders continued to occur.
The episode focuses on David Berkowitz, also known as the Son of Sam, who was a disturbed young man with a history of mental illness. The police had been hunting for the Son of Sam for months, and the public was growing restless as the killer remained at large. Finally, following a tip-off from a parking ticket, Berkowitz was arrested, and police discovered his cache of weapons and ammunition.
Through interviews with Berkowitz and his neighbors, the series delves into the psyche of a killer who believed that he was taking orders from a demonic dog. By examining the lifestyle and behavior of the Son of Sam, the documentary examines the series of events that led to his gruesome crimes in New York.
Overall, the episode offers viewers a window into one of the most traumatic times in New York City's history. The Lost Tapes pulls no punches with its raw and unfiltered footage, providing an authentic portrayal of a time when a killer was on the loose, and the residents of New York City were living in fear. The stories from those who lived through the terror of the Son of Sam keep viewers hooked from start to finish. The Lost Tapes season 1 episode 3 is a must-watch for anyone interested in true-crime stories or historical events.