Unbelievable

Unbelievable is an American mini-series that was released on Netflix in 2019. It offers a dramatic and incredibly compelling eight-episode journey, and the narrative is based on true events which were originally detailed in the 2015 article, “An Unbelievable Story of Rape," written by T. Christian Miller and Ken Armstrong, and also the This American Life radio episode, "Anatomy of Doubt."

The series is a provocative exploration of failures in our justice system, specifically regarding how rape cases are often handled. With its stellar storytelling, fantastic performances, and thought-provoking themes, Unbelievable is a show that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on its viewers.

The series follows the parallel stories of a young woman named Marie Adler, played by Kaitlyn Dever, and two committed and relentless detectives, Grace Rasmussen and Karen Duvall, portrayed by Toni Collette and Merritt Wever respectively. Notably, the series doesn't shy away from displaying the raw, harsh reality of these situations, making it a difficult but necessary viewing experience.

The character Marie Adler is a Washington state teenager who files a police report claiming she's been sexually assaulted by an intruder in her home. However, the people closest to her find details of her story doubtful, and the police officers investigating the case grapple with the elements of her story, causing certain inconsistencies to dampen their belief in her account, which leads to a drastic turn in events.

Impressively, Kaitlyn Dever conveys Adler's painful journey with both sensitivity and nuance, layering her portrayal with an exquisite balance between vulnerability and resilience. Dever's performance ensures Adler’s character receives the respect and representation she deserves, making her experiences resonate deeply with the audience.

On the other hand, the hardened, no-nonsense detective pair, Rasmussen and Duvall, from Colorado, come into the narrative slightly later but pack a serious punch. Working in different districts, these two detectives independently discover a pattern in several rape cases, leading them to believe that a serial rapist is at large.

Toni Collette, as Rasmussen, is our introduction into the procedural side, showcasing her laudable work ethic and commitment to getting justice for the victims, working tirelessly and doing everything in her capacity to catch the criminal. Merritt Wever, as Duvall, the more compassionate of the two, brings a certain softness and emotional depth while maintaining her steady resolve to solve the case. These two, together, despite their different approaches, form an unlikely but formidable team, bringing us the much-needed hope and determination within the disheartening narrative.

As the narrative progresses, the series delves into the unconventional teamwork between the two detectives against the backdrop of Marie's fight for justice. Engrossing viewers deeply into their fight, Unbelievable masterfully balances the depiction of hardship with moments of empowerment, leading the audience to a mesmerizing climax.

The series, directed by Lisa Cholodenko, Michael Dinner, and Susannah Grant, who also co-wrote the show, tackles the incredibly sensitive issue delicately yet powerfully. It doesn't shy away from drawing attention to the flaws within our society. The impactful storytelling, remarkable performances from the cast, paired with its important message, makes Unbelievable not just a brilliant series but an essential one.

Moreover, Unbelievable emphasizes the importance of believing victims and highlights the flaws in how cases of sexual assault are treated. It’s a stark reminder of the changes that need to occur within our legal, societal, and personal response to sexual assault.

Unbelievable is not just a gripping drama but also an important commentary on societal attitudes towards sexual assault victims and the systemic responses they face down. With its sincere depiction of reality, it is both riveting and poignant, leading us to introspect the world and hopefully, kindling a spark for change. This must-watch series stays with you long after the end credits roll, leaving a profound impact as only extraordinary television can.