The Witness (James D. Solomon/Jessica Robinson, 2015, USA)

The Witness is a 2015 documentary by James D. Solomon that analyzes the infamous murder of Kitty Genovese, primarily through the perspective of her younger brother, Bill Genovese. The Genovese case became known as an example of bystander apathy, cited in textbooks and literature. A narrative emerged that at least 38 of Kitty's neighbors watched her brutal rape and murder without intervening. This is the account that Bill learned, and it inspired his involvement in the Vietnam War, where he lost both of his legs.

The documentary seeks to investigate the truth surrounding this case, but also to humanize the victim - Kitty. Bill begins to meet the living neighbors quoted in the witness reports. It soon becomes apparent that statements made in the police report were mischaracterized, and that the lack of involvement was exaggerated. Various facts emerge, including that many of the neighbors didn't see what was happening, and rather heard what they assumed to be a dispute between lovers.

Bill lays the origin of the 38 apathetic witnesses to A.M. Rosenthal, then editor of the New York Times, who exaggerated the case of apathy. The credibility of Rosenthal led other news outlets to run with the same story, and it was sealed in stone. While the insight into the case is excellent, The Witness is most poignant as an exploration of Bill's relationship with his sister and attempt to come to terms with her death. His level of obsession is apparent throughout the film, including seeking out an interview with her killer Winston Moseley. He eventually meets Moseley's son, in one of the most tense and confrontational moments in the film. The Witness is a fascinating documentary that brings a great deal of insight into one of the most infamous cases in American crime and human psychology.

8/10