Ep 26. June 17, 1994 (Brett Morgen)

On June 17, 1994, the sports world was rocked by an unprecedented event: during the NBA Finals between the Houston Rockets and the New York Knicks, the broadcast was interrupted by a live police chase of former NFL player O.J. Simpson. The entire nation was captivated by the bizarre and surreal events that unfolded that day, from Simpson's escape in his famous white Ford Bronco to the extensive media coverage and public reaction.

In this episode of 30 For 30, filmmaker Brett Morgen revisits that fateful day in American history, exploring the complex and enduring legacy of the O.J. Simpson saga. Through a mix of archival footage, interviews with central figures, and reinterpretations of key moments, Morgen illuminates the cultural impact of the Simpson case and its wider significance for race, justice, and celebrity in America.

The episode begins by setting the scene of June 17, 1994, tracing the unfolding events from the viewpoint of the various media outlets following the chase. We hear from reporters who were on the scene, describing the surreal experience of trying to report on the chase while also acknowledging the gravity of what it represents for Simpson's life and legacy. Morgen crafts the narrative around these voices, interspersing their audio with footage of the chase and news reports from the time.

As the chase continues, Morgen introduces us to key figures involved in the Simpson case, including Simpson's defense attorney Robert Shapiro and prosecutor Marcia Clark. Through their voices, we gain a deeper understanding of the legal and social context of Simpson's life and career, and how that context impacted his trial and eventual acquittal. We also hear from journalists who covered the case extensively, discussing the media circus that surrounded it and reflecting on their own role in shaping public opinion about Simpson's guilt or innocence.

The heart of the episode, however, is its examination of the broader cultural significance of the Simpson case. Morgen explores the ways that race, justice, and celebrity intersected in this trial, revealing how Simpson's acquittal was seen by many as a triumph of black rights while also stoking the flames of racial tension in America. He also examines how the case changed the way we view celebrity culture and media coverage, marking a turning point in our collective obsession with the lives of the rich and famous.

Throughout the episode, Morgen employs a range of creative techniques to draw the viewer in and create a sense of intimacy with the story. He uses animation to illustrate key moments in the chase and trial, bringing a sense of dynamism and style to the otherwise static footage. He also employs an experimental soundtrack, weaving together different audio sources to create a collage-like effect that suits the fragmented and surreal quality of the events on screen.

In the end, June 17, 1994 is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most fascinating and controversial events in American history. With its innovative storytelling techniques and incisive analysis of the Simpson case, it invites viewers to reconsider their own assumptions about justice, race, and celebrity culture, and to grapple with the enduring legacy of a day that changed the sports world – and the nation – forever.