There are parts I thoroughly enjoyed in Michelle Dockery, Chris Evans and Jaeden Martell’s Defending Jacob; the story of two parents who have to deal with the idea that their fourteen-year-old son might be responsible for murdering his classmate. Yet, I can’t say I completely loved the experience of watching it. 

The best moments besides the big revelation in the courtroom is  Dockery’s performance. Evans wasn’t terrible and Martell is a very talented young man. I only wish I enjoyed the series in its entirety and spent less  time asking questions such as:

‘Do we really need to keep going back and forth between Evans’s character in the present day as he recounts what happened? It doesn’t seem to be adding much to the experience.’ 

‘Why isn’t this a two-part, or four-part series instead of eight?’

The truth is I could do with more patience when it comes to movies and TV shows. However, all I want is for something I’m watching to be fully engaging, to the point where I’m happily lost in it, rather than having to question editing decisions.

I like the idea of a story about the possibility that one’s child could be a psychopath, and I felt for Dockery’s character. The bigger issue is likely that I’ve seen elements of this story in other productions several times before. A truth that then makes this experience less impressive.

If you’re especially curious, give Defending Jacob a chance. You may find that you love it just the way it is. And that you have a lot more patience than I do.

Happy Film Loving,

G

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