Review of Capturing the Friedmans (2003) by Robert A — 23 Jul 2011
Capturing the Friedmans tackles a very difficult subject with admirable even-handedness. It's a testament to the filmmaker for making a film in which the audience is presented with a man accused of pedophilia--the most repugnant and pitiless crime anyone can be accused of, in most people's estimation--and still be able to make a viable case for the man's innocence, or, at the very least, his mistreatment at the hands of police officials.
As it turns out, Jarecki actually went to great lengths to omit material which would further condemn the police investigation that ultimately jailed both Arnold and Jesse Friedman in an effort to create a sense of ambiguity and drama. I'm not entirely sure if I agree with this route, though it does make for a more compelling narrative.
My opinion? The Friedmans were falsely accused. Arnold should have been in jail anyway and I feel no sympathy for him, but it's a shame that his son had to suffer for his father's illness.
This review of Capturing the Friedmans (2003) was written by Robert A on 23 Jul 2011.
Capturing the Friedmans has generally received very positive reviews.
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