“A lie does not set you free.”
THE STAIRCASE took its viewers back and forth between 2006 to 2017. It was a look at how it used to be verses what life has been like for the Peterson children, Michael (Colin Firth), and Sophie (Juliette Binoche).
It was very obvious that prison “sucks” and Michael is having a difficult time adjusting. I was impressed that the writers also included to show the utter despair the four adult children are feeling as well. Their lives were revoked the day their father was indicted for murder and found guilty. This episode revealed their fluctuating feelings and trying to stay positive. Sophie, on the other hand, is a pillar of strength and commitment to get to the truth of that terrible day. For me, this installment was a filler. Yes, there was another theory offered, but in the end, nothing really moves the plot to its known conclusion from court records and appeals.
THE STAIRCASE is a tragic story. I am not sure there will be a “pay-off” at the finale. There are no winners. Lives were forever altered and lost. These are facts that cannot be changed. We are all merely voyeurs witnessing this tale being retold. It is available to stream on HBO/MAX.
