Based on the 2015 Pulitzer-Prize-winning article “An Unbelievable Story of Rape”, here is one of the best Netflix productions in a while and definitely the best detective-centric show since the first season of True Detective. The eight-part drama examines the case of a 16-year-old from Washington, who claims she has been raped in her bedroom before rescinding her statement after fierce questioning of the police. Later, her initial story is substantiated by a similar incident surfacing elsewhere.
Two detectives, played masterfully by Toni Collette and Merritt Wever, refuse to assume the young girl’s guilt and embark on a relentless journey to catch the perpetrator. In addition to being a thrilling watch and insanely bingeable, Unbelievable was highly praised for shifting the attention from the abusers to the victims and making their stories heard in a true crime format. Everybody should listen closely!
"Unbelievable is a superb example of what show-don't-tell storytelling looks like."
— Jen Chaney
"It's a tough watch, but it's a rewarding one, not just because it has one of the best ensembles of the year but because of what it says about hope and empathy."
— Brian Tallerico
A teenager is charged with lying about her rape allegation, but two determined investigative female detectives discover a far more sinister truth.
Excellent show. Toni Collette is an extraordinary actor. Totally enjoyed the plot and the acting.
Just a single word to describe the tale told in this exceptionally executed mini-series: Unbelievable. It feels real (although it is a real story, it is still hard to believe that this sort of thing, a complete dereliction of duty and unprofessional bias from law enforcement community should still be happening, which unfortunately is the case.) It is not an easy watch. Toni Collette’s character, the way she talks, the way she snaps at some of the other members of her team somehow lighten the plot and make it more bearable (at least for myself). It might trigger strong feelings and can have emotional ripple effects for people who have been victim of rape and/or other forms of sexual abuse and might potentially be enraging at times. Incredible work.