One of the most famous murder stories of 20th century America gets its “definitive” documentary in a six-part series. The fascination with the Manson Family murders doesn’t seem to be subsiding anytime soon, as US television network Epix has just dropped the trailer for its documentary on Charles Manson and his crimes.

Charles Manson was an American criminal and cult leader. In mid-1967, he formed what became known as the “Manson Family”, a quasi-commune–with around 50 followers–based in California. His followers committed a series of nine murders at four locations in July and August 1969, including the film actress Sharon Tate.

The title of the docuseries, Helter Skelter: An American Myth, revolves around a theory put forward by the lead prosecutor in the Tate murder trial, an idea of an apocalyptic war arising from racial tensions between blacks and whites, they tried to trigger by these murders. According to the theory, Manson often spoke to his “family” about “Helter Skelter” in the months leading up to the murders.

The documentary will offer never-before-accessed interviews with former family members and journalists, and, as well as real-life commentary, the series will feature archival footage, newly-unearthed images, and chilling recreations.

“The legend of the Manson Family permeates our culture, our media, and our collective features. Why, after 50 years, does this ragtag group of hippies and their two-night murder spree still fascinate and purplex us?” The network spoke to Rolling Stone, continuing to describe Helter Skelter as “the most definitive recounting of the Manson Family story ever put on screen”, declaring it will “challenge everything viewers think they know about this bizarre chapter in American history”.

Helter Skelter: An American Myth is executive produced by Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, and Eli Frankel. Watch the trailer below and don’t miss its premiere on June 14.

 

Posted by:Staff