The new Paramount+ true crime documentary #Cybersleuths The Idaho Murders follows social media pundits who, at the very least, consider themselves the mainstream media’s fact-checkers. This is where the new true-crime documentary #CyberSleuths: The Idaho Murders settles in nicely— finding a niche in the competitive news business that feeds unhealthy obsessions.
That’s the point of #Cybersleuths The Idaho Murders. The true crime series isn’t really about those awful killings at all. It’s how the news was being reported and digested through social media. This becomes a fascinating character study of real-life human beings. One that bands together to discuss their fascination with a true crime that involves dangerous hubris.
Paramount+’s #Cybersleuths The Idaho Murders Season 1 Review and Plot Summary
The docuseries follows a few of these TikTok newscasters in the aftermath of the murders. The most interesting ones are Olivia Vitale, Andra Griffin (“Bullhorn Betty”), and Jonathon Lee Riches (“JLR”). The latter two have fascinating and infamous histories. The filmmakers do an excellent job of mixing in “legitimate” news reports from CBS News and Variety, counterpointing each other’s claims.
I will give credit to some of these sleuths. While they run with any lead without vetting, their backbones never bend. For instance, on a live chat, they come across one person who makes claims of knowledge and is there, whom they debunk.
#Cybersleuths The Idaho Murders is an oddly compelling television
You may find it amusing, but it’s also a nice touch as the filmmakers add the sleuths (or journalists) to social media platforms and their number of followers on the bottom left-hand corner as they speak. You’ll notice how someone from an official outlet has considerably fewer followers than someone on TikTok.
Some are remarkably good at their job, and one online commentator predicts that the police may have found a “sheath.” You can’t help but be impressed with their drive and tenacity. However, as the third episode concludes, you will notice a transition. In particular, from describing the “great day” of arresting a suspect to creating new content by questioning whether they did it or if he had help.
Is #CyberSleuths The Idaho Murders Worth Watching?
#CyberSleuths The Idaho Murders is an addictive and oddly compelling commentary on how we consume and interact with news. However, you may wish that filmmakers didn’t downplay concerns about true crime obsession, which is a flaw. Also, the lack of accountability, online harassment, and misinformation campaigns
You can stream the film #CyberSleuths The Idaho Murders only on Paramount+
Grade: 6/10
