‘The People vs. OJ’ relives biggest trial in the 90’s

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

By Arzoo Chhaya, Intern

As the 10 year anniversary of the popular reality TV show “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” approaches, fans are compelled to think of the family’s first shot at fame during the infamous trial of OJ Simpson, making the release of the 10 episode Netflix series, “The People vs. OJ,” all the more timely.

“The People vs. OJ” is a gripping, emotional and thrilling show that portrays the trial pretty well, while also addressing racial and sexual biases in law enforcement. The cast couldn’t be more perfect. The characters work as a cohesive group, but still maintain their individual roles.

The show begins with the mention of the police beating of Rodney King, and that incident becomes a major reference throughout the show. In the show, this horrific incident is only 3 years old—still fresh in people’s minds.

Simpson (Cuba Gooding Jr.) becomes suicidal when he realizes that he is the prime suspect in the gruesome murder of the mother of his children and her friend. He leads the police on a slow chase with a gun to his mouth – he wanted to see his mama –  before he gives in and allows his arrest. Later, his friend Robert Kardashian (David Schwimmer) is able to talk some sense into him.

Somewhere around this time, we meet Marcia Clark (Sarah Paulson)—a strong female lead. She is the prosecutor against Simpson and her conviction is moving. She frequently faces sexism in her field, as all the radios only seem to be talking about her hair and outfits. Her boss even suggests, “maybe skirts instead of business suits?” She is going through a divorce during all of this – and is facing a custody battle as well. She is a very determined and powerful character. She is the embodiment of the challenges that women face in professional settings. The clothes on her body and the style of her hair is more valuable than the words she speaks. I think the show captured this perfectly and realistically.

The show follows the trial and captures reactions from those near OJ—people who think he’s guilty and people who don’t. This show provides a new and interesting perspective to an iconic lawsuit.