Watch Manson: 40 Years Later

Manson: 40 Years Later is a documentary film that delves into the aftermath of the infamous Manson Family murders that took place in 1969 in Los Angeles, California. Directed by filmmaker Robert Hendrickson and narrated by journalist and author Tom Brokaw, the film examines how the brutal killings and subsequent trial influenced American culture, and the impact it had on the victims' families, society, and the criminal justice system.

The film opens with chilling archival footage of Charles Manson and his followers, showing the cult-like atmosphere at the Spahn Ranch, where the group lived and where the murders were planned. Hendrickson then interviews individuals who were directly affected by the murders, beginning with Sharon Tate's mother, Doris. Doris emotionally recalls the day she found out her daughter had been murdered, and the years of grief that followed. The film goes on to interview other victims' families, including those of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, and Gary Hinman, who was murdered by the Manson Family before the infamous Tate-LaBianca murders.

The documentary also features interviews with key individuals involved in the trial, such as lead prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi, who offers insight into the prosecution's strategy and how they were able to secure convictions. The defense attorney, Irving Kanarek, is also interviewed and offers his perspective on the case. Manson's former girlfriend, Barbara Hoyt, discusses the hold Manson had over his followers and how he convinced them to commit the horrific crimes that he orchestrated.

Throughout the documentary, Hendrickson examines the lasting impact of the Manson murders, showcasing how it became a defining moment in American culture, particularly in the way it shaped the public's perception of crime and criminality. The trial and subsequent conviction of Manson and his followers is seen by many as the beginning of the modern-day true crime genre, with books, movies, and TV shows often using the Manson murders as a reference point. The film also touches on how the Manson case influenced the criminal justice system, particularly with regards to the use of the death penalty in California.

One particularly poignant aspect of the documentary is its exploration of how the victims' families have coped with their loss over the past 40 years. Doris Tate went on to become an advocate for victim's rights and lobbied tirelessly for the death penalty. Her work eventually led to the creation of the Victims' Bill of Rights in California. Other families, such as the LaBiancas, chose to stay out of the limelight and grieve privately. The documentary sensitively handles these personal stories and offers insights into how people have been able to come to terms with such traumatic events.

Overall, Manson: 40 Years Later is a deeply moving documentary that offers a unique perspective on the Manson Family murders and their impact on American culture. Hendrickson's direction is sensitive and respectful, allowing the interviewees to tell their stories in their own words. With its powerful interviews, archival footage, and thoughtful analysis, the film is a must-see for anyone interested in criminal justice, true crime, or American history. With the 50th anniversary of the murders fast approaching, Manson: 40 Years Later remains an essential and timely exploration of one of the most notorious crimes of the 20th century.