Common Sense Media Review
By Jose Solis
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Powerful true-crime documentary has violence, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Rosa Peral's Tapes
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
After being accused of the murder of her partner and being sentenced to 25 years in prison, former police officer Rosa Peral gives her first interview in the documentary ROSA PERAL'S TAPES. In 2017, Peral and her colleague Albert Lopez, who were allegedly having an affair, were accused of the murder of Pedro Rodriguez, Peral's partner. The documentary features key players in the trial, including the defense attorney and the prosecutor, as well as journalists who extensively covered the events, often shaping public opinion about the crime.
Is It Any Good?
With the rising popularity of true crime in media, this Spanish documentary makes for a thought-provoking entry as it addresses the ways in which sexism corrupts every level of the legal system. In addition to often being described as "hot" and "beautiful," the protagonist of Rosa Peral's Tapes, a former police officer sentenced to 25 years in prison for the murder of her partner, is also described as a "black widow." The filmmakers explore how women are judged based on patriarchal morals whenever they're put on trial.
Pithy and straightforward, yet never sensationalist, this 80-minute wonder is designed for true-crime fans who will most likely spend hours obsessed about what really happened in the case. But in addition to being a marvel in its genre, the documentary makes incisive comments on sexism and questions how systems of power are constructed. Rather than deciding or telling us whether Rosa is guilty or not, the filmmakers allow her to tell her story without questioning her morals and sex life, giving the "black widow" an opportunity the justice system denied her.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the ways in which media coverage can affect the perception of a legal case. How can the media avoid creating misconceptions? Can the media be fair? Why, or why not?
What values does Rosa show as she maintains her innocence despite being sentenced? Do you believe her? If not, why not?
How does sexism influence the ways in which you see things? Do you think this case was corrupted by sexism? Why, or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : September 8, 2023
- Cast : Lorena Villarreal , Carla Lechón , Alba Ribó
- Directors : Carles Vidal Novellas , Manuel Pérez Cáceres , Carlos Agulló
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Documentary
- Character Strengths : Humility , Integrity , Self-control
- Run time : 80 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 27, 2023
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