In a world where there are whole channels dedicated to murder cases and at any particular moment there is a
Law & Order on some channel somewhere, you would think that the murder documentary genre might feel a bit stale.
The Witness (2015) proves that there is always a new angle- one that comes from deep personal experience.
The Witness is a documentary about the infamous 1964 murder of Kew Gardens resident Kitty Genovese. But this is more than just a re-hashing of that evening's horrific events. The documentary is shot from the perspective of Kitty's younger brother Bill.
Through his own interviews, archive video and photos, and some beautiful animation from
Moth Collective, Bill explores the confusing details of the case, unraveling public and personal myths as he meets with surviving witnesses discovering hidden details not just about the murder, but about his beloved sister. The truth is elusive- but the burden that he and his family have carried for fifty years compels Bill to seek it out. The dramatic arc is skillfully directed by James D. Solomon, providing twists and turns, and an emotional catharsis as satisfying as anything you'd see on L&OSVU.
It's a small independent documentary, so try to find it at an arthouse near you.
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