“Me, Hereafter” emerges as a fresh addition to Hulu and ABC News Studios’ lineup, blurring the lines between documentary and drama in the realm of true crime series. While typical true crime narratives delve deeply into the intricacies of crimes and their perpetrators, one crucial voice often remains silent – that of the victim. This series endeavors to rectify this omission by providing a platform for the voices of murder victims, albeit from beyond the grave. Yet, does it effectively accomplish this ambitious goal?
The series intertwines the voices of victims “from the beyond” with interviews from their families, investigators, and legal representatives, alongside pertinent footage such as CCTV recordings. In a manner akin to traditional true crime docuseries, certain episodes feature dramatized reenactments of events, as exemplified in the chilling case of Savanna Greywind, whose murder unfolded disturbingly close to her family’s residence.
In another episode, the focus shifts towards the investigative process, unraveling the perplexing circumstances surrounding the murder of a beloved community member. The narrative twists leading to the revelation of the perpetrator’s identity are undeniably captivating, catching viewers off guard with their unexpected turns. Additionally, the series delves into the senseless killing of a successful real estate agent and mother of two, as well as the gripping tale of a woman lost in a blizzard and her sister’s unwavering pursuit of truth.
Assessing “Me, Hereafter” solely as a true crime series, it effectively captures the emotional gravity of the tragic events, offering poignant insights through familial perspectives. However, the series’ unique premise of channeling the “voice of the victim from beyond” fails to resonate. Despite involving some family members, the execution of this concept feels oddly disrespectful, veering into territory that detracts from the gripping authenticity of the narratives. The attempt to infuse supernatural elements into the storytelling ultimately feels contrived, detracting from the raw power of the true events depicted.
