The Wrong Man
The Wrong Man

The Wrong Man

2017Movie0English

After the untimely death of her grandmother, an estranged young woman returns to their home to slowly discover the friendly, handsome man caring for her grandfather isn't what he seems to be.

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Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic75/100
Google Users89%
Director: Gabe PolskyGenres: Documentary, Crime

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the wrongful conviction of Robert Heffron, a young Black man accused of murder in 1960s Los Angeles. The film meticulously reconstructs the events leading to his arrest and the subsequent trial, highlighting systemic flaws and racial bias within the justice system. It follows Heffron's decades-long fight for exoneration, showcasing the resilience of those who believe in his innocence.

Critical Reception

The Wrong Man received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its compelling narrative, thorough investigation, and the emotional weight of its subject matter. Reviewers noted its effective use of archival footage and interviews to build a strong case for Heffron's innocence and to expose racial injustices.

What Reviewers Say

  • A powerful and important documentary that sheds light on a miscarriage of justice.
  • Effectively uses the true-crime format to expose deep-seated racial bias.
  • Compelling and emotionally resonant, making a strong case for the subject's innocence.

Google audience: Audiences largely lauded "The Wrong Man" for its gripping portrayal of a profound injustice and its urgent social commentary. Many viewers were moved by Robert Heffron's story and the film's clear advocacy for his exoneration. Some noted the slow pacing at times but ultimately found the documentary to be impactful and thought-provoking.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Fun Fact

Director Gabe Polsky initially set out to make a film about boxing in Los Angeles, but stumbled upon the story of Robert Heffron and shifted his focus to this compelling true-crime documentary.

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