Ep 1. Whoever Fears Monsters
- TV14
- November 12, 2016
- 42 min
-
8.9 (16)
In the first episode of The Killing Season season 1, titled "Whoever Fears Monsters," documentarians Joshua Zeman and Rachel Mills explore the unsettling world of serial killers and their victims. The episode begins with a brief introduction to the long history of serial killing in the United States and the insatiable fascination of the media and public with these heinous crimes.
Next, Zeman and Mills travel to Long Island, New York, where the bodies of ten victims were discovered along Ocean Parkway between December 2010 and April 2011. Dubbed the "Gilgo Beach Killer," the perpetrator of these murders remains unknown to this day. Zeman and Mills speak with experts and family members of the victims, who recount the harrowing details of the murders and their search for justice.
The filmmakers also delve into the world of amateur online sleuths, who have taken it upon themselves to investigate the case and identify potential suspects. Zeman and Mills meet with several of these individuals, who share their theories and evidence with the filmmakers. However, as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that the online investigation may be doing more harm than good, as it has led to harassment, false accusations, and a lack of focus on the actual investigation.
The episode then transitions to Atlantic City, New Jersey, where the filmmakers meet with former FBI profiler John Douglas. Douglas discusses the psychology of serial killers and the patterns of behavior that they exhibit. He also shares his own experiences in investigating some of the most notorious serial killers in US history, including Ted Bundy and the BTK killer.
Finally, Zeman and Mills visit New York City to attend a vigil for the victims of the Gilgo Beach murders. The vigil is organized by the families of the victims, who are still searching for answers and closure. The filmmakers speak with several of the family members, who share their memories of their loved ones and their frustration with the slow progress of the investigation.
"Whoever Fears Monsters" is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that delves into the complexities of serial killing and the challenges of investigating these crimes. The filmmakers expertly weave together interviews with experts, family members, and amateur investigators to create a comprehensive picture of the impact of these crimes on individuals and communities. Throughout the episode, there is a palpable sense of unease and mourning for the victims, underscoring the devastating cost of these senseless acts of violence.