Watch Natalie Wood: An American Murder Mystery

Natalie Wood: An American Murder Mystery is a gripping and emotional documentary that delves into the mysterious and tragic death of beloved Hollywood icon, Natalie Wood. The film, which stars Natalie's younger sister, Lana Wood, offers an intimate look at the actress's life, her career, and her untimely demise. The documentary begins with a recap of Natalie's rise to stardom, from her early days as a child actor to her breakout role in the classic film, Rebel Without a Cause. We see clips of Natalie in her most iconic performances, as well as interviews with those who knew her best, including co-stars, directors, and friends.

As the film progresses, we learn more about the circumstances surrounding Natalie's death, which occurred on November 29, 1981. The actress was on a weekend boating trip with her husband, actor Robert Wagner, and their friend, actor Christopher Walken. The details of what happened on the boat that night are murky, and Natalie's death was initially ruled an accidental drowning.

However, as the documentary reveals, there were several inconsistencies in the official story, as well as rumors of foul play. Through interviews with witnesses and experts, including detectives who worked on the case, the film pieces together a timeline of events and attempts to answer the question of what really happened to Natalie that night.

One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is the perspective offered by Natalie's sister, Lana. Throughout the film, Lana shares her own memories of growing up with Natalie, as well as her thoughts and feelings about the investigation into her sister's death. It's clear that the loss of Natalie continues to impact Lana deeply, and her presence in the film adds a layer of emotional depth that is rare in true crime documentaries.

The film is also notable for its careful handling of the individuals involved in the case. While there are certainly insinuations made and questions raised about the actions of Robert Wagner and Christopher Walken, the documentary refrains from outright accusing anyone of wrongdoing. Instead, the focus is on the facts of the case and the efforts to bring closure to Natalie's family and fans.

In addition to interviews with Lana Wood and other key players, the film also features archival footage and reenactments to help flesh out the story. The visuals are dramatic and engaging, but never distract from the seriousness of the subject matter.

Overall, Natalie Wood: An American Murder Mystery is a well-crafted and engrossing documentary that sheds new light on a Hollywood tragedy. Fans of true crime and Hollywood history will find plenty to appreciate, while those who are new to the story will be drawn in by the engaging storytelling and emotional resonance of the film. By the end, viewers will undoubtedly feel a renewed appreciation for Natalie Wood's talent and legacy, and a desire to uncover the truth about her untimely death.