Mastermind

After reading the reviews, in particular the reviews regarding episode 3 and the Menendez Brothers Case, some of the reviewers have incorrectly stated that there was no evidence of abuse in the Menendez case. However this is incorrect. There was evidence of abuse including medical reports from the hospital, photos and testimony. The letter from their cousin and Roy Rosello further corroborates this abuse. Please educate yourself before making such incorrect claims. Doctor Ann Burgess is an incredible woman and ahead of her time. Having watched both Mindhunter and Dr Ann Burgess testimony during the Menendez trial it was a welcomed documentary to finally watch.

*Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer* is a gripping psychological thriller that delves deep into the mind of a master manipulator. The film skillfully explores themes of control, obsession, and deception, keeping the audience on edge with every twist and turn. The performances are intense, with standout portrayals that make the complex characters feel real and dangerous. While the pacing can sometimes feel slow, the intricate plotting and sharp dialogue make up for it. With its dark atmosphere and clever twists, it's a tense, cerebral experience for fans of mind games and suspense. Highly recommended.

The first 2 episodes were 7 or 8 stars. Very well done. Maybe a bit like every other 'true crime' documentary or podcast you might listen to, but that's the way of the world. No originality. Where this falls apart is episode 3. What seem like 2 very small points. First the Menéndez brothers. Her claim that they were sexually abused falls flat. No proof. None. All that is said is they claim it happened. I think the earth is flat. Does that make it so? Of course not. Maybe they just left that part out, but that would prove the point of where this fails. Then Bill Cosby. The first woman claims sexual assault. After taking 3 blue pills he gave her. What?! He just gives her 3 blue pills and she takes them. Doesn't sit right at all. Like the $3.4 million she got it seems like Dr. Burgess discovered there was more money to be made working for the defense. So, watch the first 2 and skip the last one.

This of course is the former and it is a breath of fresh air - having had just finished a 'troubled teen' documentary that Max produced, which was so disappointing, then to come over to this "campire films" production who gave us greats such as " Jiro dreams of sushi" and "a glitch in the matrix" - I am just so appreciative of the professionalism and expertise BOTH by the filmmakers AND the subjects - which is becoming more and more rare these days. For one thing, it features the amazing Dr Ann Burgess, a true pioneer in the study and research and quantifying of criminal behavior - who is, imo, a national treasure and subject matter I could watch for hours.

Dr. Burgess is an absolute trailblazer in her profession. This documentary did a great job giving her well deserved recognition for her work and her impact. It was hard to watch the prolific discrimination against victims not so long ago but the discomfort is testament of the progress made through Dr Burgess' work. There's still much work to do, but here could not have been possible without her dedication to helping those who were subjected to violence. Loved that the documentary also called out the widespread sexism she had to deal with throughout her career only to have her dedication and talent to prevail. This still happens too much. The road for women is still too hard, but the road she helped paved cannot be underestimated.