True crime has reached a substantial uptick in popularity in recent years. As the world becomes more cynical, I find myself trying to understand how we went wrong. I think that may be a universal sentiment and one big reason why so many people seem to connect with programming of this ilk. No matter why you connect with true crime content or what you seek from it, I have a recommendation that any strong-stomached enthusiast should endeavor to experience at least once. Before doing so, however, keep in mind that Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is a film you will never be able to unsee.
In addition to standing as a film you can’t erase from your mind, Dear Zachary also functions as an unflinching portrait of one of the most devastating true crime cases of our time. For some added context, the film began as a means to share a father’s legacy with a son who would never get to know him thanks to an untimely death at the hands of a bitter lover. However, as the case at the center of the proceedings evolves, the project takes on a decidedly different connotation.
I previously covered this one in a long-form piece for Dread Central. My coverage is complimentary in almost every way, yet make no mistake, this is a film that will leave a lasting impression on you.
Here’s an excerpt from my write-up that effectively conveys as much:
“Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is easily the most gut-wrenching documentary I have ever experienced. It’s heartbreaking and tragic. And it’s incredibly painful to sit through. The film invokes feelings of helplessness and rage. It’s the kind of viewing experience one wouldn’t wish on their worst enemy.”
I’ve deliberately tried to keep some of the details vague because there are a number of unforeseen developments that play out as the case unfolds. With that in mind, I recommend that you go into the film as cold as possible. The true story explored within is wilder than anything a screenwriter could make up. If you think you are prepared to endure Dear Zachary, you can find the doc on Tubi.
So, there it is, Dear Zachary is a film that will stay with you for life, whether you want it to or not. Even still, the filmmaking within is masterful and gives viewers insight into a series of tragedies that defy our understanding of human nature.
Keep an eye out in the near future for more updates from the streaming space. Until then, feel free to look me up on Threads. I am on the platform as @FunWithHorror.
Categorized:News
