The Speedway Murders

I was very much looking forward to this documentary because I have been following this unsolved case for quite a while now...several years. I was very impressed with the style and format on how it was presented. I also liked that they explored several known theories on why this senseless crime happened. I absolutely LOVED how they brought these people back to life for us. It was hauntingly beautiful, and I didn't want it to end. I don't usually like to give a perfect score for anything, but I was just so captivated with this film. The authenticity to time and culture of 1978 mid American teenagers was spot on as well.

This is done in a unique way, it mixes interviews with all the key players (family, suspects, friends of suspects), with dramatisations giving voice to the victims - there are actors playing the four victims and talking to each other (in character, in the restaurant, as they clean up etc) about the case and the likelihood of each theory. At first I thought, "this is a bit cheesy, c'mon guys". But after a while I realised how good it is. So sad. Senseless. Giving the victims actual life, mixed in with family interviews makes it even sadder. The polite 17 yr old girl who kept a diary, looking forward to turning 18 soon. The guy wanting to make the basketball team. The other guy wanting some pocket money for xmas presents. Such a bloody waste by a cold blooded killer.

I don't know why, but the producers of these documentaries often see the need to insert creepy, scary, jarring sounds on a continual basis.

It cheapens the whole thing. Makes any true crime program into a low brow 'B' movie type of thing.

The rest of it is not too bad. Having the kids involved int he story telling is unique. I don't really like it, but it's interesting.

There's no answers of course. Which is fine, you know that at the start. But half way through, I was debating whether to continue this.

I think there are many better true crime documentaries out there other than this. Watch one of them.

The filmmakers' approach to telling this story is unique, compassionate, and effective as they put forth multiple competing theories, from the perspective of detectives, witnesses, families, and the victims themselves.

We attended a premiere screening in Indianapolis, followed by a Q&A with the (Australian!) filmmakers and several of the key players featured in the production. The "Burger Chef murders," the name by which locals know the tragic crime, has haunted locals for more than 40 years. Even though we have never forgotten about it, the film presented a great deal of information and insight that had not previously come to light.

One of the best true crime films I've seen. Cannot recommend highly enough.

The Speedway Murders is a gripping and well-researched true crime documentary that masterfully explores the chilling 1978 Burger Chef murders. With a balanced mix of archival footage, expert interviews, and dramatic reenactments, the film keeps viewers engaged while shedding light on a decades-old mystery. The pacing is strong, building suspense without feeling exploitative, and the storytelling remains respectful to the victims. While some questions remain unanswered, the documentary does an excellent job of presenting the case and possible theories. A must-watch for true crime fans. 9/10 and god bless the victims and their families.