Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory
Dir: Joe Berlinger, Bruce Sinofsky
2011
*****
It goes without saying that this concluding part of the Paradise Lost series is a must see for those that enjoyed the two previous films. It's a must see for everyone really as the lessons learnt are important ones. The conclusion is both good and bad, I don't want to give to much away but the end could have been a lot worse for everyone involved. Some of the revelations are pretty shocking, at the end of the last film we all thought we had it sussed but more information is available now and and more important lessons have been learnt. We also have a new accused which makes for shocking viewing. A brilliant film but somehow I don't think this is the end. The trilogy should be watched and followed by West of Memphis to give the full picture of events. 

Paradise Lost 2: Revelations
Dir: Joe Berlinger, Bruce Sinofsky
2000
*****
It was always going to be hard to match the impact that the first film had but then this is more of an update of events. The real problem the film makers had was that far less people were willing to talk to them and they were banned from filming inside the courts. Instead, they concentrate on the West Memphis Three supporters and the only parent of the deceased willing to participate, John Mark Byers. It actually turns into the John Mark Byers show for most of the film, but then he is probably one of the most fascinating (not to mention disturbing) people ever to appear on screen. His involvement into the murders is questioned but now with hindsight, you can see how he was suspected and accused with the same lack of evidence and discrimination as the WM3 themselves. I suppose the only issue with this film is that it is now out of date as a lot has happened and I've read about the case and what has happened since. It's still a great reference though, as is the first film. For me the best moment was when the Free the three members calmly and intelligently ripped the media to pieces, the media being just as bad as the courts in their ignorance. Part 2 of a shocking and astonishing documentary trilogy that is not to be missed.

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills
Dir: Joe Berlinger, Bruce Sinofsky
1996
*****
Probably one of the most shocking, frightening and astonishing documentaries ever made. Having been on a Jury twice I'm not surprised by certain problems in the judicial system but I just couldn't believe my eyes and ears watching this case. I'm not that naive that I don't believe that Courts, Defence/Prosecutors and the media aren't always on top form but the display of ignorance, stupidity and dishonesty on show here boils the blood as well as chills to the bone. Bruce Sinofsky and Joe Berlinger really hit the jackpot with this one but then can this still be classed a documentary after their involvement with the case? It has to be seen to be believed.