Despite the abundance of true crime dramas, A Friend of the Family stands out because of how effectively frustrating (and, at times, nauseating) it is to watch. Broberg is abducted more than once in plain sight, and during the investigation of her case, officers encounter dark secrets and sick twists made even more unbelievable by how seemingly perfect the families involved are. Of course, the shocking true events are one thing, but the way they’re told by creator Nick Antosca and reenacted by a stellar cast that includes Anna Paquin, Colin Hanks, and Jake Lacy transform the horrifying true story into a disturbing work of art. Completing the picture is the show’s commitment to replicating the era as accurately as possible. Everything from the title cards, needle drops, costume, and color grading works to immerse you into the distinct world of 70s suburbia. Even the Peacock symbol was given the 70s treatment, which says something about the show’s dedication to the minutest details.
"Amidst a sea of real-life stories of manipulation and grief and predation being turned into TV series, A Friend of the Family is one that stands out because it’s not constructed in that way."
— Steve Greene
"With sharp writing from the great showrunner Nick Antosca, sensitive direction from Eliza Hittman and others, and a dedicated ensemble, this series rises above your average true crime drama."
— Brian Tallerico
The Brobergs are completely unprepared for the sophisticated tactics a neighbor of theirs uses to exploit their vulnerabilities, separate them and turn their daughter against them.
Based on shockingly true events, the miniseries tells the story of how 12-year-old Jan Broberg (Hendrix Yancey and Mckenna Grace) was groomed, kidnapped, and eventually abused by a close family friend and fellow member of the church.
Is Jake Lacy on a mission play the most hateable characters on TV?
It’s one of those un-bingeable shows, not because it’s bad but because each episode is more horrifying than the last, forcing you to take a breather before carrying on with the show.
