Ep 1. The Anthrax Files

In the season 30 premiere of the acclaimed investigative journalism series, Frontline delves into the Anthrax attacks that shook America in the immediate aftermath of 9/11. Titled “The Anthrax Files”, the episode takes us on a journey that spans over a decade, investigating the case that has perplexed scientists, FBI agents, and national security experts alike.

The episode starts with a re-telling of the harrowing events that unfolded in September and October of 2001. First, America was subjected to the most devastating terror attacks in history as the World Trade Center towers fell, followed by another plane crashing into the Pentagon. Mere days later, the country was struck by a new form of terror: the Anthrax attacks. Letters containing deadly spores filled with Anthrax began to arrive at various media outlets and government buildings, leaving five people dead and several others sick.

The ensuing investigation was nothing short of a rollercoaster. The FBI, tasked with finding the perpetrators, swung from one suspect to another as they chased down leads. Dr. Bruce Ivins, a microbiologist who worked at Fort Detrick, became the centre of attention as investigators found ample evidence seemingly pointing towards him. However, Ivins always maintained his innocence, and his suicide in 2008 added to the mystery surrounding the case.

“The Anthrax Files” is a compelling watch, filled with interviews from key players in the investigation, including FBI agents, government officials, journalists, and scientists. The episode does an excellent job of presenting both sides of the story, exploring the ‘erratic’ behaviour of Ivins as a potential crime motive, while also exposing the lack of supporting evidence that the government had against him. It also showcases the frustration felt by FBI investigators, who worked tirelessly on the case and were forced to eventually concede that they couldn't definitively identify the source of the spores or determine the motive behind the attacks.

Alongside the interviews, the episode uses archive footage, news reports, and forensic files to piece together the timeline of events. It also highlights the public’s reaction to the Anthrax attacks, showcasing how fear and uncertainty grew as the number of attacks increased.

Perhaps what’s most intriguing about this episode is that 18 years after the event, the case remains unsolved. This fact, in itself, is an indictment of the FBI’s investigation, and the public’s trust in the authorities who promised to catch those responsible. As the FBI’s original assertion that the attacks were made by a foreign entity was disproven, scrutiny remains on the authorities who failed to identify a domestic source for the attack— even after a prolonged investigation that controversially resulted in Ivins’ death.

Overall, “The Anthrax Files” is a must-watch for anyone interested in the post-9/11 America. It’s harrowing, revealing, and a reminder of the ongoing struggle to bring those responsible for such heinous acts to justice.