Fred et Rose West: Un cauchemar britannique

Netflix's Fred and Rose West: A British Horror Story aims to revisit one of Britain's most notorious serial killer cases, but ultimately falls short by omitting key details that could have provided a more comprehensive understanding of the crimes.

The three-part series does offer some compelling elements, such as previously unseen police footage and interviews with journalists and investigators. However, it largely fails to delve into the psychological dynamics between Fred and Rose West, their backgrounds, and the systemic failures that allowed their crimes to continue unchecked for decades. The documentary touches on the discovery of nine bodies at their Gloucester home and briefly mentions the abuse of their children, but it doesn't explore the full extent of their depravity or the impact on the victims' families.

Critics have pointed out that the series feels superficial and voyeuristic, lacking in-depth analysis or new information. For instance, it doesn't adequately address the role of Janet Leach, the "appropriate adult" during Fred's police interviews, who later testified about Rose's involvement in the murders. Additionally, the documentary doesn't explore the possibility of other victims, despite Fred's claims of having killed more than the confirmed number.

While the series may serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with the case, it misses the opportunity to provide a deeper, more insightful examination of the Wests' crimes and their lasting impact. By focusing primarily on the sensational aspects, the documentary overlooks the complexities and nuances that could have offered a more meaningful narrative.

In conclusion, Fred and Rose West: A British Horror Story presents a chilling tale but ultimately lacks the depth and detail necessary to fully comprehend the horror and implications of the Wests' actions.

Fred and Rose West: A British Horror Story kept me thoroughly engaged and was genuinely gripping, especially as someone unfamiliar with the case. However, the documentary left several frustrating gaps. It frequently implied there could be more victims, but after the 12th body was found, it never explained why the search ended. That lack of closure was disappointing. I also think it missed the chance to examine the twisted relationship between Fred and Rose in more depth. Even more striking was the absence of testimonies from their children-particularly Anne Marie-whose voice was central to the case. After all these years, Netflix could have tried to include their perspective. Lastly, an updated account from the social worker involved with Fred might have added essential context about the system's failures. A compelling documentary, but with missed opportunities.

The documentary feels rushed and that it needed another three episodes at least.

Key events such as Fred's brain injury, Rose's relationship with her father, more background on Rena and Ann McFall, the possibility that other victims such as Mary Bastholm may exist are all missed. Whilst some victims are given some coverage and family interviews conducted, an episode giving background on each victim would have emphasised the person behind the victim.

The new footage is interesting but seems to be the whole purpose behind the documentary rather than an attempt to add further context to the events being described.

Ironically Howard Sounes' (contributor and producer) own podcast contained much more information on this subject than contained in this documentary.

Frankly there have been channel 5 documentaries that are more detailed and informative.

I agree with the reviewers who found this documentary lacking in depth. I did find the recently released police interview recordings fascinating, but the rest of the documentary seemed like an overview that in spots was a little hard to follow without more context. For example, I would have liked to know more about the Wests' backgrounds (including Fred's first wife and child); the backgrounds of the victims whose relatives weren't interviewed; what became of the Wests' children immediately after the arrests and in the years afterward; and what became of the house. And why didn't they ask the "appropriate person" why she lied on the stand? Overall, given the available material, this could have been much, much better.

Harrowing documentary, however, chunks of key details and Info left out/missing. If you've never watched a documentary regarding the story before then you'll probably find it really good, whereas for myself I've watched a few docs over the years about it which were a bit more in depth and included extra details etc.

All in all a very decent documentary regarding the shocking story but lacking key details, evidence and info. Three relatively short episodes which you can binge in one night so it's definitely worth a viewing especially if you've never seen a documentary regarding it before. 7/10.