I AM A KILLER Season 1 Episode 4 Sympathy for the Devil
- June 19, 2018
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7.5 (292)
In the fourth episode of season one of I AM A KILLER, titled "Sympathy for the Devil," viewers are introduced to James Robertson, a man who had been sentenced to death for the murder of his cellmate in a Florida prison. The episode focuses on how Robertson became the "devil" in the eyes of the public and whether or not he deserves sympathy.
Throughout the episode, viewers learn about Robertson's background, including his abusive childhood, his struggles with mental illness, and his criminal history before he landed in prison. Robertson maintains that he did not intend to kill his cellmate, Frank Valdes, and that the incident was the result of a scuffle that got out of hand.
The episode features interviews with Robertson, as well as members of Valdes' family and law enforcement officials involved in the case. Viewers also see reenactments of the crime and hear from Robertson's family members and friends who argue that he deserves sympathy despite his actions.
One of the key questions explored in the episode is whether or not Robertson was a victim of circumstance. Some argue that he was failed by the system due to his mental health issues and that he was put in a dangerous situation by being placed in a cell with someone who had a history of violence. Others argue that Robertson was a violent criminal who had a history of harming others and that his actions were the result of his own choices.
Ultimately, the episode leaves it up to viewers to decide whether or not they feel sympathy for Robertson. Some may see him as a victim of circumstance who deserves a second chance, while others may see him as a dangerous criminal who got what he deserved.
Throughout the episode, viewers are forced to confront uncomfortable questions about violence, mental illness, and the criminal justice system. "Sympathy for the Devil" is a thought-provoking installment of I AM A KILLER that challenges viewers' preconceptions and asks them to consider the complex factors that can lead to violent behavior.