The Thin Blue Line

   Filmspotting is probably my favorite movie podcast on the internet.  It is hosted by Adam Kempenaar and Matty Robinson, two Chicago film critics who know their stuff.  Each week, they review a new movie or two, discuss what notable DVDs are coming out, and finally end each episode with a Top 5 list.  The most recent of which has Kempenaar and special guest co-host Michael Phillips (critic at the Chicago Tribune) counting down their "Top 5 Documentaries."  The Thin Blue Line came in on Phillips' list at number three and was number one on Kempenaar's list, so I had to check it out.  Luckily, Netflix Instant currently has it streaming so I checked it out.
  The film was made by legendary documentary filmmaker Errol Morris (Tabloid, Gates of Heaven) in 1988.  It focuses on the events surrounding an evening in Dallas, TX in November of 1976, when police officer Robert Wood was shot five times and killed by a motorist during a routine traffic stop just after midnight.  This documentary features the conflicting stories of David Ray Harris and Randall Adams, who met earlier that day and were both caught up in the investigation surrounding the murder. 
  Even though you can easily search the internet for the outcome of this real-life drama, I won't spoil it for you.  I will just say that this film played an extremely pivotal role in the appeal process that eventually led to justice being served, albeit 12 years after the crime was committed.  One of the interviews featured provided authorities enough evidence to reopen the case after the documentary was released in 1988 and bring the case to a satisfying close.  The stakes couldn't be higher, as the crime carried with it the death penalty in Texas.  The film plays out with highly dramatic twists and turns that far surpass the investigative reporting you may see on Dateline or 60 Minutes.  Morris' editing is superb as he pieces together the interviews to create a high level of suspense and anticipation about how the case will conclude. 
   The Thin Blue Line is a fascinating documentary that you need to see to believe.  I recommend that you read this link only after you have finished the movie.  Enjoy.