‘Ridiculous’ Netflix series true crime fans binge in just one weekend
A Netflix series described as ‘extreme’ and ideal for a weekend marathon is said to leave viewers unable to enjoy any other true crime programmes in quite the same way.
Week after week, the streaming service appears to release some form of documentary film or series examining a captivating real-life case for audiences to devour. As one of the platform’s most popular genres, these titles typically secure a position within the top 10 charts soon after launching.
This month alone has witnessed both the film Shipwrecked: Nightmare At Sea and the series Worst Neighbor Ever claiming the number one position in their respective categories. Yet there exists a somewhat overlooked, frequently underappreciated title that represents essential viewing for every true crime enthusiast.
American Vandal originally launched on Netflix in 2017. Comprising two seasons, numerous viewers have praised it as an effortless binge-watch that can easily be completed over a single weekend.
According to its synopsis, the eight-episode series examines the consequences of several high school pranks. Senior pupil Dylan Maxwell faces accusations and subsequent expulsion for the offence, reports OK!.
This prompts budding student documentarian Peter Maldonado to launch his own investigation, supported by friend Sam Ecklund, determined to uncover the true culprit behind the crimes.
The second season follows Peter and Sam as they tackle a fresh case, recruited by a different school to probe the contamination of the cafeteria’s lemonade by an enigmatic individual dubbed The T**d Burglar. However, American Vandal isn’t rooted in any actual cases.
It’s a mockumentary that brilliantly embraces and satirises the true crime genre. Much like the finest documentaries in this category, it keeps audiences guessing about the genuine culprit right until the final moments.
The series holds an impressive 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Sadly, Netflix announced there would be no third series, prompting one critic to declare: “American Vandal was too good for this world and we didn’t deserve it.”
Another viewer stated it ‘ruined all true crime shows” for them. They continued: “It is a parody of true crime shows taken to the extreme. (It takes) a ridiculous (and fictional) crime and applied the same thorough reporting, language, and gravitas as a traditional true crime show.
“The joke, however, is on me, and any other viewer who finds themselves getting just as caught up in American Vandal as they did Making A Murderer or The Keepers, despite the wildly different subject matter.”
The ensemble features Tyler Alvarez, who later appeared in Netflix’s Blockbuster and the American adaptation of sitcom Ghosts. He’s joined by Locke and Key’s Griffin Gluck and Jimmy Tatro.
Tatro currently features in Netflix’s latest Will Ferrell series The Hawk, portraying the comedy icon’s on-screen son. He’s also understood to be in advanced talks for a significant role in a Superman spin-off series.
Both fans and critics continue to urge everyone to give the series a watch. One review published online hailed the series “the streamer’s greatest ever comedy”.
Meanwhile, viewers have been vocal in their praise across social media. One wrote: “This is the only series on Netflix that I have binged in the true sense of the word. The writing is superb, combining mystery and hilarity. Don’t miss it.”
Another remarked: “This show is ridiculous in the best way. I was cracking up and hooked on finding out the mystery in each season.”
A further viewer stated: “Just about the best show I’ve watched on Netflix. flies under the radar you never expect it to be so honest and thoughtful and funny it surpasses every possible expectation.”
While another commented: “American Vandal is easily one of the best pieces of media that Netflix has put out in a long time – maybe ever. This show is criminally underrated and it is plain addictive. Each character and every aspect of the plot is believable. The plot twists are done very well and hooks the viewer in with ease. I cannot believe this show does not have a mass popularity and fan base.”
American Vandal is streaming on Netflix.
