Continuing with the true-crime documentaries, Netflix’s latest docu-series is on the notorious serial killer, Richard Ramirez, otherwise known as the Night Stalker, which premiers January 13th.
Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer is a riveting four-part docu-series on Richard Ramirez. Sadly, most know or remember the appalling horror crimes of serial killer Richard Ramirez’s rampage in Los Angeles in 1985.
However, this docu-series gives back the power to where it deserves, the survivors and the victims’ families. Stripping away the once insidious power that overtook them, they take back control of the reigns from the heartache and pain they experienced. This docu-series honors these incredible humans who are incredibly courageous and mighty, as well as the names we don’t know.
Despite the golden rays of the California sun or the glamourous intrigue of Hollywood, Los Angeles’s underbelly is rather insidious.
The evil contrast lurks in the shadow of privilege and glamour, seemingly straight out of a horror film. From June 1984 until August 1985, Richard Ramirez preyed on residents. Slipping into their Los Angeles and San Francisco homes in the small hours of the night, Ramirez carried out his atrocities and then re-sell stolen items for cash.
Netflix’s Night Stalker‘s a deep dive of heartache for those unaware of Ramirez’s moral bankruptcy. Investigators retell their accounts while spotlighting the victims and survivors’, especially the infrequently mentioned ages, which distressfully range from 6 to 82.
Sadly, there could be others that woefully have slipped through the cracks since the technology wasn’t what it is today. Yet this is where director Tiller Russell’s Night Stalker comes in.
The grainy ’80s archival footage pairs well with the sleek editorial edits that make it engaging despite its gritty material. Adding to the grit are two Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department detectives, Frank Salerno (co-lead Investigator) and Gil Carrillo (LA Sheriff Homicide Detective), who led a task force to capture Ramirez before he could strike again.
Their accounts weave the jagged pieces of the notorious case with details but overall humanity and grace that the survivors and victims’ families deserve.
As the detectives give an insider account of the gruesome nature, Russell adds layers on the ominous with sinister music that adds another menacing vibe thanks to composer Chris Walldorf.
The entire series is a fascinating watch; Russell levels the malicious content of those directly affected. They transform it from just another enticing true-crime retelling into an overdue humanization of their experiences.
Incredible humans live with this; their courage to speak out is empowering. Not to mention Tiller dims the once previous unhealthy fascination light on this evil man.
A terrifying thrill ride, those unfamiliar will be engrossed. It’s sleek and a horror-like thrill ride that seems like a film. Those aware of the case’s wicked cruelty will be captivated. While time doesn’t always heal all wounds; however, it also helps soothe where it can. That’s the importance of the docu-series.
Additionally, we’d like to show appreciation for the eighteen incredible citizens whose tips assisted in solving the case. Especially Alejandro Espinoza, whose anonymous tip further trajected the case forward. Woefully, Espinoza is still missing and has been for many years. Any help in finding him or his family, click on the link above so they may claim their reward.
Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer premieres on Netflix on January 13th, 2021.
