American Murder: The Family Next Door: What We Know
Netflix recently released a documentary called American Murder: The Family Next Door, which has sparked quite a lot of conversation. In this documentary, the tragic events of 2018 are explored in-depth. August 13, 2018 marked the day that a young mother and her two daughters would become victims in a chilling display of domestic violence. Through interviews and powerful archive footage, we take a close look at the events that lead up to the crime. Here is what we know so far.
Background
American Murder: The Family Next Door is a documentary film released in the United States on Netflix. This documentary is based on the real-life tragedy that occurred in 2018 involving Chris Watts, his wife Shanann, and their two young daughters, Bella and Celeste. On August 13, 2018, Chris Watts murdered his pregnant wife, Shanann, and two daughters. This documentary provides viewers with an intimate and heartbreaking look into the lives of the Watts family through home movies, archival material, and interviews with the families, friends, and members of the community.
Plot Summary
The film begins by introducing us to the Watts family and offering home videos and glimpses into their day-to-day lives. We are told about Shanann’s struggles with postpartum depression and Chris’ infidelity. We are also given a comprehensive look at the multiple hospital visits Shanann made for her body aches and cramps, eventually leading to a surprising revelation that she is pregnant once again.
The film then takes viewers through the events leading up to the murders. We learn of Chris’ affair, how he was picking up his mistress and going out late at night while Shanann was at home, preparing to take the girls to their grandmother’s. We also hear evidence presented in police interviews and witness a timeline of Chris’ lies that ultimately lead to his arrest.
The documentary culminates in the emotional and powerful confessions and plea deals made by Chris. We witness how grief stricken and emotional the families involved in this tragedy become as they learn the extent of Chris’ crime and the full weight of the horrific events of August 13, 2018.
The Impact of the Murders
The Watts family murders have shaken the town of Frederick, Colorado and had a lasting impact on the community that gave them a sense of home. The town mourns the loss of Shanann and her two beautiful young daughters. This documentary is helping to keep their memories alive, takes viewers on an emotional journey, and allows the public to become more informed of this tragedy.
We can also look at the social and cultural impact of the Watts family murders. Domestic violence and the effects of toxic masculinity have increasingly become topics of discussion, and this case serves as an example of the devastating consequences these issues can have on individuals and families.
The Domestic Legal Response
On November 5th, 2018 Chris Watts pleaded guilty to the first-degree murder of his wife and daughters, as well as charges of unlawful termination of a pregnancy and tampering with a deceased body. He was sentenced to five life sentences – three consecutive life sentences for the murders and two consecutive life sentences for the unlawful termination of pregnancy.
In addition to Chris Watts’ sentence, it should also be noted that Shanann’s family was able to pass a bill in Colorado’s Legislature called “Shanann’s Law,” which provides stricter sentences for those convicted of an adulterous homicide. This bill passed in 2019 and serves as an example of how those affected by domestic violence can have a voice and have their wishes heard.
Public Opinion and Takeaways
The public reception of the documentary has been divided. Many viewers express admiration for the storytelling and the focus on Shanann and her daughters, while also condemning any potential sympathy for Chris Watts or his actions. Others express anger about the documentary criticizing the police for not thoroughly investigating the case initially.
By taking a look at the Watts family murders and understanding the events that took place, it is clear that domestic violence is an issue that needs to be addressed. This issue impacts multiple in society and can have devastating consequences. It is important to pay attention to warning signs, get help if you need it, and take a stand against domestic violence.
American Murder: The Family Next Door is an emotionally charged documentary that gives us an up-close look into the lives of the Watts family and the events leading up to the horrible crime that occurred on August 13, 2018. We take a look at interviews with the families and members of the community and learn about the laws that have been changed in their wake. With public opinion being divided, it will benefit us to keep an open mind and remember that domestic violence is a serious issue with very serious consequences.
