West of Memphis

West of Memphis is a 2012 documentary film that follows the story of the West Memphis Three, a trio of young men who were wrongfully convicted of the brutal murders of three young boys in West Memphis, Arkansas in 1993. The film was directed by Amy Berg and produced by Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh.

The movie begins with the events leading up to the murders and the subsequent investigation, trial, and conviction of the West Memphis Three. The film explores the belief of the local police and prosecutors that the killings were part of a satanic ritual, despite the lack of evidence to support this theory. The documentary also examines the role that the media and public opinion played in shaping the investigation and the eventual convictions.

The film then moves on to cover the efforts of the West Memphis Three and their supporters to prove their innocence and gain their release from prison. They are eventually helped by a team of private investigators, headed by Terry Hobbs, the stepfather of one of the murdered boys.

Throughout the film, viewers are introduced to a number of key players in the case, including the families of the victims, the accused, their attorneys, and various experts and witnesses. The documentary uses a combination of archival footage, interviews, and reenactments to present a comprehensive and detailed account of the case.

As the West Memphis Three appeal their convictions, the film hones in on the flaws and inconsistencies in the prosecution's case. These include unreliable eyewitness testimony, coerced confessions, and the mishandling of key evidence. The documentary also raises questions about the motives and conduct of the prosecution, the police department, and even the judge presiding over the case.

The final act of the film covers the efforts of the West Memphis Three and their supporters to finally secure their release from prison. After more than 18 years behind bars, the three men are finally given the opportunity to enter Alford pleas, which allow them to maintain their innocence while still being released from prison.

Overall, West of Memphis is a powerful and moving documentary that sheds light on a miscarriage of justice and the struggle for justice and truth in the face of overwhelming odds. The film is a testament to the courage and perseverance of the West Memphis Three and their supporters, and a reminder of the importance of fighting for justice in the face of injustice.