6.7 / 10 (based on 107 reviews)
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2 seasons, 16 episodes, 60-minute runtime
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True Life: Crime, a spin-off from the original MTV documentary series True Life, premiered in 2020, taking a deep dive into the world of crime and its impact on young people. This series stands out by focusing on real-life cases involving young individuals, shedding light on the circumstances leading to these crimes and their aftermath. It’s not just another crime documentary series; it’s a poignant exploration of the tragedies that have struck many families and communities.
The Premise
At its core, True Life: Crime investigates crimes that have had a significant impact on young people, either as victims, perpetrators, or those left behind to deal with the consequences. Each episode is a standalone story, meticulously researched, presenting the facts, the investigation process, and the outcome. What makes this series unique is its approach to storytelling, combining elements of traditional crime documentaries with the immersive, personal storytelling MTV is known for.
Why It Stands Out
In a sea of crime documentaries and shows, True Life: Crime manages to distinguish itself for several reasons:
Focused on Youth
Many crime shows tend to focus on adult victims and criminals, often overlooking how crime affects younger individuals. True Life: Crime fills this gap by highlighting cases involving young people, offering a fresh perspective on the true crime genre.
Real Impact
The show doesn’t just recount events; it delves into the impact of these crimes on families, friends, and communities. It’s a sobering look at the ripple effects of crime, extending beyond the immediate victims and perpetrators.
Engaging Storytelling
True Life: Crime employs a narrative style that’s both engaging and respectful. The storytelling is straightforward, avoiding sensationalism and instead focusing on the human aspect of these tragic events.
Notable Episodes
Several episodes of True Life: Crime have left a lasting impression on viewers, due to the shocking nature of the crimes, the emotional depth of the stories, and the insights they offer into the criminal justice system. Here are a couple of examples:
The Tragic Case of Kenneka Jenkins: This episode delves into the mysterious death of 19-year-old Kenneka Jenkins, who disappeared from a hotel party and was later found dead in a freezer. The episode explores the social media frenzy that ensued, the theories that emerged, and the impact on her family and community.
The Murder of Sarah Stern: Another gripping episode focuses on the disappearance and subsequent murder of 19-year-old Sarah Stern, revealing the betrayal by a friend and the painstaking investigation that followed. It’s a heart-wrenching tale of trust, betrayal, and the quest for justice.
These episodes, among others, showcase the series’ ability to handle sensitive topics with care, providing a platform for stories that might otherwise be overlooked.
Impact on Viewers and Society
True Life: Crime has not only captivated viewers but also sparked conversations about broader societal issues. By focusing on young victims and perpetrators, the series sheds light on topics such as mental health, social media’s role in crime, and systemic failures in addressing and preventing crime among youth. It’s a reminder of the complexities surrounding crime and its prevention, pushing for a more nuanced understanding and discussion.
Criticisms and Controversies
No show is without its critics, and True Life: Crime has faced its share of criticism. Some argue that despite its intentions, the series can still feel exploitative, sensationalizing tragedy for entertainment. Others have pointed out potential issues with accuracy and the ethics of portraying real-life events on television. These criticisms are important, as they push the creators to continually evaluate and improve their approach to sensitive content.
Conclusion
True Life: Crime offers a unique lens through which to view the true crime genre, focusing on the stories of young people affected by crime. It’s more than just a series of crime stories; it’s a platform for raising awareness, sparking dialogue, and perhaps even driving change. While it may not be perfect, its contribution to the conversation around crime, justice, and the impact on youth is undeniable. For fans of true crime looking for a series that offers depth, emotion, and thoughtful storytelling, True Life: Crime is worth watching.