tv review

Big crimes, small screen; true crime television series and TV documentaries that recreate and reexamine some of the mystifying and grisliest cases in history.

Erin Patterson murder trial
After overindulging in dessert, an Australian woman on trial for murder claims that she threw up the poisonous mushroom meal that killed her relatives. In connection with the beef Wellington lunch that was served at Erin Patterson's regional Victorian home in July 2023, she has pleaded not guilty to four charges, three of which involve murder and one of attempted murder. Prosecutors allege Ms Patterson deliberately served toxic death cap mushrooms, but only to her guests. The contaminated meal, according to her defense team, was a tragic accident that had also made their client sick. Ms Patterson told the court she had only eaten a small part of lunch but later consumed two-thirds of a cake, before becoming "over-full" and vomiting.
By ARJU RAHMAN 7 months ago in Criminal
Echoes of the Dead
The rain had been falling for hours, turning the streets of Chicago into slick mirrors reflecting neon signs and the occasional glow of a cigarette. Detective Jack Marlowe lit one up, his fingers trembling slightly from more than just the cold.
By Esther Sun8 months ago in Criminal
"Man Suspected of Attempting Murder After Driving Into Crowd at Liverpool FC Parade"
A tragic incident unfolded in Liverpool on May 26, 2025, when a 53-year-old man drove a minivan into a crowd of soccer fans celebrating Liverpool FC's Premier League victory. The collision occurred on Water Street, shortly after the team's open-top bus parade had passed through the area. The driver, who was arrested at the scene, is facing charges of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving under the influence of drugs.
By Kazi Abir Ahmed8 months ago in Criminal
Russia and Ukraine Trade Drone Strikes After Trump Rebuke
**Russia and Ukraine Trade Drone Strikes After Trump Rebuke** Tensions between Russia and Ukraine escalated sharply following a barrage of drone and missile attacks by both sides, just days after former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly criticized the leadership of both nations. One of the most intense aerial confrontations in recent months has resulted in the deployment of dozens of drones, the destruction of important infrastructure, and renewed calls for diplomatic intervention. Over 350 Iranian-made Shahed drones and a number of cruise missiles, according to Ukrainian military sources, were launched by Russia against important Ukrainian cities like Kyiv, Odesa, and Lviv. Ukrainian air defense systems were activated immediately and reportedly intercepted a majority of the drones, though significant damage was still sustained in various areas. The primary targets included civil buildings, energy infrastructure, and rail networks. In response, Ukraine launched its own wave of drone attacks, targeting Russian-held military installations and fuel depots in areas of Crimea and Belgorod. Explosions were reported near several key logistical hubs, causing temporary disruptions in Russian military operations. The counterattacks, according to Kyiv, are a "measured response" to Russia's "escalating aggression." This intensification in hostilities came on the heels of a controversial social media post by Donald Trump, who labeled Russian President Vladimir Putin as “crazy” and accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of being unwilling to compromise for peace. Trump, who had previously made a point of praising his close relationships with both leaders, expressed dissatisfaction over the inability to reach a ceasefire and suggested that both sides were ignoring the larger interests of the world. Trump’s statement triggered reactions across global diplomatic circles. The Kremlin dismissed his remarks as “emotional,” emphasizing that Russia’s military operations are a matter of national security. Ukrainian officials, meanwhile, were more reserved, with a presidential advisor noting that peace cannot be built on “false equivalence” between aggressor and victim.
By GLOBAL NEWS8 months ago in Criminal
The Manson Family Murders 😢
In the summer of 1969, the United States was shaken by a series of brutal and senseless murders that would leave a permanent scar on the nation’s psyche. These crimes, later known as The Manson Family Murders, were not only horrific in nature but also symbolized the end of the peace-and-love era of the 1960s. At the heart of this nightmare was Charles Manson, a manipulative cult leader who commanded a group of devoted followers into committing some of the most notorious crimes in American history.
By D A R K8 months ago in Criminal
Aurora’s Dark Secret
It was a quiet neighborhood in Aurora, Colorado—a place where people left their doors unlocked, kids rode bikes until sunset, and neighbors exchanged baked goods over white picket fences. Linda Foster, a 58-year-old retired schoolteacher, had lived on Evergreen Street for over thirty years. She was known for her garden, her cat Muffin, and her habit of renting out her basement to help supplement her pension.
By D A R K8 months ago in Criminal
Review of 'Law & Order' 24.16 and 24.22
Law & Order has been at the top of my must-watch television since it debuted on NBC in 1990. Here are my reviews of my two favorite episodes of its just concluded 24th season:
By Paul Levinson8 months ago in Criminal
A Day Never Forgotten
On the morning of September 11, 2001, the United States experienced the deadliest terrorist attack in its history—a tragedy that reshaped global politics, security, and the psyche of a nation. Often referred to simply as "9/11," this catastrophic event was more than just a day of destruction; it marked a profound turning point in the 21st century. The attacks not only shattered the lives of thousands of innocent people but also set into motion a chain of events that continue to reverberate around the world.
By D A R K8 months ago in Criminal
The Final War Between India and Pakistan
In May 2025, tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan reached a perilous peak, marking the most severe military confrontation in decades. The conflict, ignited by a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, rapidly escalated into a full-scale exchange of missile strikes, air engagements, and drone warfare, with both sides accusing each other of aggression.
By Masood Zahid8 months ago in Criminal
Operation Sindoor
The precision strikes were carried out using niche technology weapons with careful selection of warheads, said the officers.
By Tasnimul Tonon8 months ago in Criminal
India–Pakistan Tensions Rise
A deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir has reignited long-standing tensions between South Asia’s two nuclear-armed neighbors, India and Pakistan. The incident, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals—mostly Hindus—has triggered a new wave of diplomatic, military, and geopolitical unease in the region.
By Masood Zahid8 months ago in Criminal
Understanding the Israel-Palestine War
The Israel-Palestine war is one of the most talked-about conflicts in the world. It has been going on for many years and affects millions of people, especially in a small region called Gaza and the West Bank. To truly understand this war, we need to learn more about the people living through it — including the Palestinians — and see their hopes, struggles, and dreams.
By Masood Zahid9 months ago in Criminal