True Crime Tuesdays: All is not what it seems in this six-part doc series, all accompanied by special guest discussions.
The subject of this riveting exposé is nothing less than the Philippines’ “trial of the century,” a Kafkaesque extravaganza populated by flamboyantly corrupt public officials, frenzied tabloid journalism, clashing political interests and international intervention. Director Michael Collins focuses on Paco Larrañaga, one of the seven young men accused of raping and murdering two sisters in 1997. Despite a robust alibi and lack of concrete evidence, Larrañaga was convicted and sentenced to life in prison—but as it went through appeals, the case continued to grow more complex and impactful at each turn. This enthralling chronicle of justice and injustice is sure to galvanize.
Director Michael Collins will Skype in for a post-screening Q&A moderated by film critic and author Geoff Pevere.
Critical praise:
- Variety - "Remarkably cogent."
- The New York Times - "Chronicles the jaw-dropping details of Mr. Larrañaga’s arrest and trial."