Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Murder, sexual abuse in docuseries covering infamous killer.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
This Is the Zodiac Speaking
What's the Story?
THIS IS THE ZODIAC SPEAKING is a docuseries chronicling the infamous Zodiac, a serial killer who terrorized Northern California in the late 1960s and early 1970s and sent cryptic letters and ciphers to local newspapers. The series delves into firsthand accounts from victims' families and survivors, including a family who now believes their childhood teacher and family friend was the Zodiac killer. The series also features interviews with a political cartoonist who worked at the San Francisco Chronicle and became obsessed with the case; he discusses how the media interacted with the killer through his letters.
Is It Any Good?
This series does a fantastic job of unraveling the details of the Zodiac killer case that's notorious for its complexity. From the ciphers the killer demanded be printed on the front page of newspapers to the multiple occasions the police encountered the Zodiac and let him go, This Is the Zodiac Speaking adds emotional depth and credibility to the story. The inclusion of many firsthand accounts in the series ensures the story's twists and turns keep viewers engrossed. The series also touches on Hollywood's portrayal of the case, referencing the movie Zodiac starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr., and Mark Ruffalo. Overall, the docuseries is gripping, often leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as it builds toward major revelations.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the media's role in covering the Zodiac case and the impact they had on the investigation. Families can discuss whether it helped or hindered the police.
Discuss the ethical dilemma of whether newspapers should have printed the Zodiac killer's letters and ciphers. Did they make the right choice?
How does fear and trauma affect entire communities when a violent criminal is on the loose? What are some ways to deal with these feelings and reactions?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 23, 2024
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 25, 2024
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