CA v. MENENDEZ

Brothers Erik and Lyle Menendez are on trial for the August 1989 shotgun murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in the family’s Beverly Hills mansion. The brothers were arrested in March 1990 after Erik confessed during a session with his psychologist. During the highly publicized trial, the prosecution claimed the motive was greed as the brothers stood to inherit $14 million. The defense claimed that it was an act of self–defense in a desperate attempt to escape years of childhood family violence and sexual abuse.

Directed by —, CA v. MENENDEZ leans on a strong ensemble — Lyle Menendez, Erik Menendez, Leslie Abramson — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1993.