Homicide: New York Season 1 Review – A crime series that does more than just narrate dry facts

Season 1

 

 

Episode Guide

Carnegie Deli Massacre
Central Park Slaying
Vanished on Wall Street
Midtown Slasher
East Harlem Serial Killer

 

Netflix’s crime documentary series “Homicide New York” is certainly one of the finest offerings on the platform. Spanning five episodes, the series delves into the emotional world of homicide cases primarily located in Manhattan over the past three decades. What sets “Homicide: New York” apart is its double perspective, narrating the story from both the police and victims’ points of view. 

The series shows how the New York Police Department (NYPD) became deeply involved in these cases on a personal level. Creator Dick Wolf takes a contemporary approach, blending stock footage, interviews, and re-enactments to create a persuasive story that’ll stay with you.

Each of the 5 episodes talk about a different case, spanning from serial rape to mass slaughter and property disputes. Some of these cases might stir deep emotions, while others could leave viewers feeling unsettled. The series sheds light on the complexities of these situations, showing the personal toll on families and the nooks and crannies of investigations.

Viewers witness how a single murder can devastate three generations of a family or how seemingly ordinary teenagers can commit acts more violent than adults. The show also explores how the media can serve as a tool for societal improvement while also revealing instances of racism victims might face from journalists.

Moreover, “Homicide New York” provides insights into the judicial system, showing examples of admirable judgment alongside moments that might challenge viewers’ faith in the legal process. The series also challenges the challenges encountered by law enforcement, showing how people with the most power can feel powerless in certain circumstances.

In the first episode, titled “Carnegie Deli Massacre,” the creator sets the tone for the entire series. Right from the start, the series stands out for its cinematography, background music, and editing. The use of a green tone adds to the screenplay’s appeal, capturing the audience’s attention. One particular scene shows the killer ominously approaching their next victim after committing a murder in the same room.

The careful staging of this scene, along with the background dialogue, leaves a lasting impression on the audience. As you start watching the series, you’ll gradually become accustomed to its efforts to excel in the technical department just like this one.

In terms of writing, episodes 3 and 4 are the highlights, featuring heavy and eventful plots. The series provides commentary on various aspects of society, including the judiciary, departmental rivalry between Manhattan North and South detectives, the positive and negative impact of media on police cases, and whatnot. 

“Reality is indeed stranger than fiction,” a sentiment viewers will readily grasp while watching the show. The series portrays the setbacks experienced by real-life heroes, showing how even police officers go through personal turmoil. Viewers are confronted with the chilling realization of witnessing a loved one being killed before their very eyes.

The series also captures moments of criticism from within the police department towards the judiciary, as well as emotional reactions from the police when justice is finally served after a long wait. These moments make it clear that the series is not just about narrating dry facts but engagingly presenting these homicide cases to the audience.


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  • Verdict - 8/10
    8/10
8/10

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