The acting in this series especially by the kids/young adults really pulled me in. I havent gotten this emotional watching anything in a long time. The last episode had me in tears multiple and I hope viewers withhold judgment till they see the whole thing. This is still so relevant 30 years later.
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punkndrublic75422 June 2019
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ramesesbrathwaite1 June 2019Knew these kids from my neighborhood were innocent the whole time. Back then and much like now, cops in my neighborhood were notorious for all types of crimes: They sold drugs, robbed drug dealers, were involved in sex crimes and even were guilty of extortion and homicides. We knew the outcome was race based, but besides the nightmare these 6 individuals endured ( Yes, there were 6 not 5)... because the police lied and the prosecutor also, an innocent woman, a pregnant woman would later be murdered by the actual killer. No "Justice" for Black & Brown, "Just Us" being incarcerated at disproportionate levels.
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cey1978-546-44433131 May 2019Hard to watch and because it feels so real it really makes me sad and angry.
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daniellebridger31 May 2019Brilliant but very hard to watch. It made me so angry. Fantastic acting from start to finish.
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gwen-246201 June 2019This was the best movie I've seen in years. It made me angry and it made me sad. Needless to say, justice was not served in this case. The police, the prosecutors, the prison system, and the parole system all failed. Who was there to "protect and serve" these boys? How do the prosecutors charge them with confessions such as these? How can people tolerate the crimes and torture happening in our prisons? I don't know if I could have watched this movie if I didn't already know the ending.
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Imme-van-Gorp1 March 2023Rating: 8.5/10
Themes: Biography, History, Drama, Racism, Injustice, Rape, Prison, Persecution, Law, Police & Crime.
Review: This story is something that honestly leaves me speechless. There are no words to describe the outrage I feel with regards to this situation or the injustice of what these five boys went through. It's insane. It's crazy. It's UNJUST. However, I'm now going to go into the actual execution of this series, rather than the story itself, which, in my opinion, left certain things to be desired. I think the first and final episode were chilling and were able to portray the story in the exact right manner. However, the middle two episodes (especially the third) could have been done better. They didn't hit as deep and they felt very rushed. I feel like we didn't really get to see the struggle Kevin, Yusef, Antron and Raymond went through after they got convicted. I feel like we glossed over their experiences a little bit. Opposingly, Korey's life was depicted in detail and with a lot of emotion (in the final episode), and it was his story that eventually brought me to tears. In conclusion, this story is a devastating one, and this series luckily brings a strong light to that, but I personally feel like some things could have been executed a little better to portray the story even better and do even more justice to all these five boys. -
ahmetkozan10 June 2019This production, which has been very popular since the introduction process, made an ambitious introduction to Netflix. When They See Us aims to tell an impressive story that has shaken the audience deeply.
The series focuses on the "Central Park Five" incident in 1989. Since many people are aware of this tragic event thanks to this series, the mission that the series takes on is very important. Five blackish youths are unfairly accused of rape in Central Park in 1989. The series, which tells the struggle of these five young people against justice, dates from 1989 to 2002. The series, which reveals a flutter that touches the heart, is not only important because it is based on reality, but also has inferences that shed light on today. When They See Us is very successful in reflecting the tension and drama of young people's struggle for justification. The main reason why emotions are well reflected is the excellent acting performances in the series. Accurate actor preferences help to better reflect the screenplay with an impressive fiction. Episodes ranging from 60 to 80 minutes allow the 23-year process to be followed step by step. A successful cinematography has been applied to ensure that this tense atmosphere is supported visually. Apart from the main characters, there are also successful names in episodes of the series. The series, which has a crowded staff, is becoming one of the productions to be watched thanks to this collective success.
When They See Us reflects a successful example of a genre not so common in Netflix. To see the reflections of a true-life event with its different dimensions in today's world will give the viewers a new perspective. An excellent option for those who want a quality drama. 10/10 -
wezza8431 May 2019Compelling. Just goes to show how messed up a county America is. My heart go out to the Wrongly accused.
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kiomarsnu1 June 2019This is one of the most beautiful and emotional mini series of the year so far. Well directed, excellent character building, amazing acting and well scripted. It touches your soul and cries out your heart. Thank you, Netflix!
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jlangston-291311 June 2019The only bad reviews I have seen are by conservative commentators who see it as a political diatribe. It isn't. It's the brutally honest story of a horrible tragedy and the racial discrimination of the time, exemplified in a nationally known case. Unfortunately for conservatives, if it's a story about racial discrimination - which has existed throughout history and continues to exist today - its considered a liberal agenda, even though it is not. It's a story of Injustice, and an excellent one at that.
Side note: Now some commentators have some now claimed that it blames Trump, but it doesn't. I would point out, however, that Trump backed their conviction and opposed their being let go even after it was demonstrated they were innocent. -
rebeccarage-113221 June 2019This was an uncomfortable but necessary watch. I was very familiar with the case, even more so that I actually thought but to see it acted out and shot so tremendously was gut wrenching. Sadly injustice has been and will be part of life until the end of time, undoubtedly there's people fighting through it right now. I've seen quite a few negative reviews that this is just a puppet show to stomp on Trump and if that's your belief fine, but in my view facts speak for themselves and I knew about Trumps involvement in this case before this series, but there's no doubt the writer/director really wanted that message out there. Putting all politics, corruption and media aside, it's a truly harrowing, gut wrenching story about how five normal BOYS, lost their freedom, youth and innocence and how all of them including the victim never saw justice served correctly. A hard watch but a must watch.
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Montayj17 June 2019The reason this is good is because of the real story, not because of anything Ava brought to the table. Everything is so drawn out, as only she can do, and tedious and boring. Most people won't criticize because of the real story but I am able to disconnect the real story to a poor job in creating this film version. There are a lot of empty spots in this film. Antron's daddy's story is horribly incomplete. Part 3 was a total waste. We don't see a dramatic prison experience until part 4 with Corey; the other ones are kind of put to the side. There is an unnecessary "love" scene" with little man's sister that had nothing to do with nothing. Part 1 and 2 are drawn out. The only reason it's a 6 rating is because part 4 is good. Then there's that horrible interview by Oprah, talking about when they see us now. She was asking elementary questions.
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SeanG199815 June 2019But the truth ends there, for this show.
This is Oprah's version of the truth, the facts be damned. Oprah, joined by an initially small group of vocal activists, tried to cast doubt back in 2002, by questioning why the victim, Ms. Meili was alone in the park (the story of Oprah's interview is still available from the NYTimes).
I need to summarize the facts, as they are obfuscated in this series and are relevant as to why this should not be considered a worthy show. The true story is that the five perpetrators, together with approximately 25-30 others, ran amok inn the park, beating and robbing people at random, including at least one who was beaten unconscious with a metal rod. The five were convicted based on evidence and witness testimony (including testimony by their friends), as well as confessions. These convictions were later challenged by the defense, but the perpetrators themselves have repeatedly confirmed their participation and some have openly expressed regret.
The rape charges were based on confessions and testimony, but the police always maintained that there was another, unidentified at the time attacker. While Matias Reyes met with defense attorneys for the five and confessed before his death, medical and other evidence did not support his claim that he initiated the attack -- for example, according to the medical examiners Ms. Meili had injuries consistent with her being held down by multiple attackers. Based on testimony and the evidence, it is most likely that Ms. Meili was initially attacked by the group of young males (who may have tried to unsuccessfully rape her) and after they moved on, Matias Reyes came upon her and dragged her further into the bushes where he almost killed her.
Some of the sentences related to the rape charges were likely too harsh, based on reasonable doubt. But the five were not the innocents portrayed in "When They See Us."
The self-censorship (and some active censorship) on this topic are a regrettable part of our time and a reminder how divided America has become.
The rewriting of history, and the hounding of Ms. Fairstein by activists and part of the media, are both outright scary.
Enjoy the show, but keep in mind it is a show. It is far, far from the truth about what really happened. -
This is educational, jaw dropping, sickening, eye opening, impeccably done on every level, and makes u really think how this could have happened. The DA and the lead Detective should be in jail because this is criminal. The story is true and those accountable for lying to take away 5 young kids lives need to be exposed.
I hope every kid sees this in this country. It's not only about race but about being smart and unifying as a country . Understanding the "justice system". Don't forget the Kleenex when u watch ep 4. -
Firstly I would like to state, taking the tiny portion given to Trump and then shoving aside the rest of the series is YOUR right. Coming on here and trying to act like your review gives meaning, is also okay.
Now an actual review after watching it all. If you can set aside politics and see the much bigger message of The Central Park Five, you'll be able to bear witness a masterpiece. DuVernay has made their story hit hard to a generation who all may not have been around or heard of the tragedy. To those who were around then will see how past mistakes are still made today. Injustice in the justice system continuing with no regards to consequence. To all this can strike a chord if you just watch for their story at the least. This will be a series talked about so might as well watch it and take whatever you get out of it. If there is any takeaway my review can hold it should be this, pause when you need to take a moment. This series is raw but a needed series. -
bempti293 June 2019This story broke my heart and made me angry. This is a sad indictment on the NYPD and the U.S. judicial system in general. It also makes clear that Trump was just as big a fool then as he is now. No monetary settlement can make right the crimes that were perpetrated on these 5 innocent children. I wish them peace and happiness for the rest of their lives.
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iliaskymusic13 September 2019Firstly, I will address the TV series itself and then the story behind it. As far as actual cinema goes...A riveting spectacle. Sometimes, a bit slow and probably could have been done in 3 parts instead of 4, but nevertheless excellent! The cast is superb! Especially, Jharrel Jerome as Kevin Wise.
Now to the actual story: I've been reading some negative reviews here by people screaming that it is "Lies, propaganda", "how rapists get millions of dollars". What is wrong with you people? Of course, no one truly knows if they were 100% innocent or not, but look at THE FACTS of the case.
A known felon, with a history of Rape and Murder confessed to the crime. His DNA matched the DNA found on the victim. He confirmed details and characteristics of the crime that only he could have known. Next to that, you have 5 teenagers. NONE of their DNA matched the DNA found on the victim. None of them had a drop of the victim's blood on their cloths. Read that last sentences again. None of them had a history of violence against women and most probably didn't even know what the word "rape" means. 5 Children were brought into an interrogation room, aggressively questioned (including physical violence) for almost 2 days without sleep, without food and without the presence of their parents, who were only present during the "confessions" later on. So you have 5 black (PC doesn't matter at this point) children from unprivileged socio economic and educational backgrounds who are questioned by predominately white police inspectors who use a variety of intimidation and manipulation techniques (both mental and physical) to get a confession out of them. Put most children in their place and they would say they freakin' killed the president, just so that they could go home....and without ANY physical evidence connecting them to the crime scene, with greatly conflicting versions in the confessions, with confused time lines and location descriptions, these people STILL get convicted in a trial that today, would have been thrown out the window after 5 min considering how many violations were made...and you STILL have the nerve to scream they were guilty and deserved to rot in prison? You are asking to look at the facts...did YOU go through them? Let me repeat that for you. NO physical evidence was found to tie the suspects to the crime scene. NO DNA matches, NO plausible motive. On the other hand, you have an individual that has all 3 and who has no connection to the 5 teenagers whatsoever, and you STILL want to make them guilty? Un-freakin'-belivable. -
egeferentino931 May 2019I made a mistake in my first review of this Netflix mini series! I wanted to correct myself when I said do read all of the negative reviews. What I want to say is please do not read all of the negative reviews on here. Watch it and make up your own mind!
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I bet there are some scenes you don't want to watch it, you can't watch it, it's very very difficult to digest. Acting is brilliant, you will get to see pure raw emotions. Though some of the trump supporters are ruining the show's rating, It's a 10/10, and deserve to heard and watch at least once.
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Xstal6 June 2020Incredible story, incredible storytelling, incredible people, incredible performances, incredible film making, incredible scripting, incredible injustice, incredibly shocking, incredibly relevant, incredibly infuriating, incredible incredible incredible.
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BudoSenpai1 June 2019The Trump supporting trolls on here are trying to ruin the overall rating for this compelling story that needs to be told over and over again! This film is definitely not a 1 out of 10 like they're rating it. It deserves at least an 8 just for the acting alone to which I felt was excellent. If you haven't already, please watch the highly acclaimed award winning documentary The Central Park Five. It goes into greater detail about the corrupt NYPD Detectives who brutalized these men who were just innocent kids at the time. I was so pleased that they eventually were exonerated and succeeded in suing New York City and receiving an award for $41 million! This is still happening to Black men in America today, there are many Black men being released after having spent 25-30 years in prison for a crime they didn't commit to receive little to nothing in monetary compensation. Overall, I think this was an excellent Mini-series.
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The final episode of this series was a hard-to-watch heart-wrenching experience, but the hardship Korey experienced is the same for thousands of inmates, and I don't think it makes much difference whether they are innocent or not... However well it played as a psychological drama, in a series about the case of the Central Park Five, I expect a thorough examination of the societal structures that causes the criminal justice system to fail. If the series is meant to be informative and facilitate discussion and change, one-dimensional antagonists won't do. Prison guards that seem to do evil for evils sake is one cinematic sin, but the real shame is that the power dynamics between the prosecutor, the police, businesses and politicians is not explored. We understand that they are caught in a web of lies at the end, but we don't get the bigger picture, which is necessary if we're to understand what motivated them and got them to this point. In real life, there is a hierarchy, and everyone would have someone cracking a whip over them, forcing them to go forward aggressively with their part in the case. Professionals usually don't make bad decisions because they're "evil", but because they are under pressure - from their leaders, from colleges or other circumstances. A few bad apples is not what causes justice to fail so spectacularly over and over. It's the system itself that is rotten to the core. However, instead of taking a hard look at society and classicism, the series settles for racism and outrage. Thus, it fails to become more than peculiar entertainment, which I don't think was the intent!
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SeanG199815 June 2019Who needs trolls to spread disinformation and stir up divisions, when we have Ava DuVernay?
This is the kind of divisive, manipulative and most importantly, grossly inaccurate rewriting of history, which took the most extreme defense claims and presented them as truth. Truth be damned.
Oprah was blaming Ms. Meili for running alone when she first interviewed her back in 2002. Fringe-driven manipulation like this is what brought us Trump. Because Trump is a reaction to this, and this is a mirror image of what Trump does.
What is being buried by this false narrative is the fact that the "five" were convicted of viciously assaulting 8 victims on the same day, beating at least one unconscious. There is no dispute about this. Based on medical evidence and witness testimony, they are almost certainly guilty of beating Ms. Meili, who was later raped and further injured by Matias Reyes.
The execution is reasonably well done, if at the level of a prime time network show. But because of political and identity social pressure, the critics must love it (or be dragged through the mud).
But make no mistake, this is propaganda, at its worst. Sometimes even Trump is right: this is "fake news."