2 Must-Watch Series After Binging Netflix’s O.J. Simpson Doc

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  • A Powerful Look at O.J. Simpson and the Trial of the Century
  • An Academy Award-Winning Exploration of O.J. Simpson

For more than three decades, the life and impact of the former NFL football player O.J. Simpson have captivated people globally. In 1995, Simpson was put on trial for the gruesome murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman. Despite the brutal nature of the crime, Simpson was controversially found not guilty following an eight-month criminal trial that gained widespread attention. Numerous films, TV shows, and documentaries have delved into Simpson’s story and the sensational media frenzy that erupted after his arrest, a remarkable event in history that continues to be a topic of discussion and fascination even today.

In 2025, Netflix unveiled the four-part documentary series titled “American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson,” which delves into the sensational murder case that resonated deeply with society and significantly influenced American viewers through media coverage. Amongst the latest offerings from Netflix, two standout originals are generating critical acclaim, offering a more comprehensive perspective on the trial of the century. Let’s explore these two critically-acclaimed productions.

A Powerful Look at O.J. Simpson and the Trial of the Century

Known as one of the most sensationalized criminal cases in history, “The People vs. O.J. Simpson” recounts the astounding 1995 court case of Orenthal James (O.J.) Simpson, a former NFL player and actor, who was on trial for the grisly murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman. The series features an impressive lineup of actors such as Sterling K. Brown, Sarah Paulson, Cuba Gooding Jr., and David Schwimmer. Drawing from Jeffrey Toobin’s book “The Run of His Life: The People v. O. J. Simpson,” this true crime phenomenon offers viewers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the chaos that erupted following Simpson’s arrest and subsequent eight-month trial, which was broadcast to millions worldwide.

1994 saw Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. portray O.J. Simpson, who gained immediate attention following a slow-speed car chase in a white Ford Bronco pursued by police. This incident led to his arrest and subsequent trial. Tragically, on June 13, 1994, Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were found murdered outside her condo’s courtyard. To defend himself, Simpson enlisted the help of a renowned legal team dubbed the “Dream Team,” led by Robert Shapiro (played by John Travolta) and Johnnie Cochran (Courtney B. Vance). Meanwhile, Marcia Clark (Sarah Paulson) served as the lead prosecutor during the trial.

This compelling show skillfully explores the events that unfolded within the courtroom as well as beyond its walls. It sheds light on the sexism and harassment Sarah Paulson’s character, Clark, faced as a female prosecutor, the deep-seated racism within the LAPD, and how Simpson’s legal team effectively instilled doubt in the jury’s mind. Upon its debut, The People v. O.J. Simpson garnered critical acclaim, boasting a remarkable 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with Paulson’s captivating portrayal earning praise from viewers. The series was also recognized with multiple awards, including two Golden Globes, five Primetime Emmys, and two Satellite Awards (among many other accolades). Catch up on The People v. O.J. Simpson on Hulu.

An Academy Award-Winning Exploration of O.J. Simpson

The engrossing five-part 2016 documentary miniseries titled “O.J.: Made in America” delves into the captivating journey of O.J. Simpson, from his promising college football career at the University of Southern California to his imprisonment for robbery in 2007. Filmmaker Ezra Edelman skillfully combines archival audio and video, interviews, and news reports to provide a comprehensive account of Simpson’s life and legacy, which has been marred by controversy. The documentary also sheds light on the escalating racial tensions in Los Angeles during the 1990s, which played a significant role in his high-profile murder trial.

This documentary delves beyond the verdict of Simpson’s high-profile murder trial to explore a deeper, more personal perspective on the trial’s effects. Edelman chose to interview 72 individuals, including members of his defense team, prosecutors, childhood friends, jurors, and African-American civil rights activists, for Sports Illustrated, to provide a comprehensive portrayal of the impact that Simpson’s court case had on various parties involved.

Paint a more profound narrative on race in America, focusing on Los Angeles, the bond between the African American community and law enforcement, and the persona of O.J. Simpson and his ascent to fame. This is the tale I aimed to convey.

The critically acclaimed documentary titled “O.J.: Made in America” was praised for its thought-provoking storytelling and insightful exploration of race, fame, and the American cultural landscape. This groundbreaking project has achieved remarkable recognition, boasting a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an impressive 98% score on Popcornmeter. It has been bestowed with prestigious awards such as the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, two Primetime Emmys, and a Peabody. Furthermore, it was selected as the Best Documentary Film by the National Board of Review. Entertainment Weekly described the film as “a powerful critique of self-creation, culture making, and idolatry that resonates with everyone, regardless of race.” If you’re interested, you can purchase “O.J.: Made in America” on Prime Video.

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2025-02-06 01:32