When I first about this series I started wondering if it wasn’t a bit too soon to make a show about the O.J. Simpson case. I can still remember this being in the news and how the court case got lots of attention in the media. Then I realised that these events took place more than twenty years ago. So there is a whole generation who doesn’t know this case, in which a beloved former American football-player and actor suddenly became a suspect in the murder of his ex-wife and her boyfriend. The chase in his white Bronco was broadcast live. I didn’t know all the details of the case, but I never really watched it at the time. So this first season of American Crime Story was a nice opportunity to watch what happened and why this court case caused so much discussion.
For this first season the producers have managed to get an impressive cast together without any weak link. Cuba Gooding Jr. is good as Simpson, because he is able to show a soft side which almost convinces you he isn’t able to do anything bad, while the facts tell a different story. John Travolta is Robert Shapiro, a slick lawyer who manages to get a great defines team together. Sarah Paulson was my personal favourite as prosecutor Marcia Clark, a complex character who doesn’t only struggle with one of the biggest cases in her career, but also is dealing with a divorce and everyone in the media judging on her appearance and abilities.
The thing which makes this season so great is that (just like in a real court case) it doesn’t always is about the question if Simpson is guilty or not, but it also shines a light on the tension in society where race still plays an important role. Unfortunately it’s something that’s still relevant (just look at the Black Lives movement). The court case is impressively recreated and also shows what is happening behind the scenes. Even if you saw the case at the time, than the show is able to add enough drama to keep your attention.
