Final Witness

Saw Final Witness a few days ago. it combines elements of reality shows with dramatic reenactments. The real life violent murder story was brought to life by some very talented performers, most notably Madeline Blue. Through their acting, clever editing and solid direction, the show offered an in-depth and sensationalized account that made me have a sleepless night or two. Maybe three. The recreated images of the bloody crime scenes and dead bodies were enough to sober anyone. There's even interviews in which brutal acts of violence are examined in detail. so naturally if you're squeamish I'd stay away. but if you don't mind that, and like thought provoking drama with strong performances, definitely check it out.

Admittedly I am a hardcore Investigation Discovery geek, and have seen almost every show multiple times. This is my favorite ID show. It is exceptionally well-done, from the music chosen for episodes, the resemblance of the actors to the actual people, the respectful yet all-engrossing way the stories are told, the camera shots and settings. The way the cases are told from the victim's POV makes you see things in a new light, even if, as another reviewer noted, these are familiar stories that we've seen before. It's the most empathetic of the ID's shows that I've seen. Of course, warnings apply for graphic depictions of dead bodies, etc., so not for squeamish or young people. Highest recommendation!!!

Final Witness is no more than one of those crime witness shows you see on Tru TV or the old ones that were hosted by Robert Stack back in the 90s. Someone dies, you get bad actors playing the parts of real life folks, a smattering of the real DA's and detectives who worked the actual case.

What could be resolved in about 30 minutes is dragged out for the full hour, rinse and repeat with the next episode. Yes, the fact that it's true stories its awful for those families and of course the victim, but as far as good television goes its a bit sleepy.

No it doesn't totally suck, but neither does it excite.