“Deconstructing True Crime: A Review of ‘Based on a True Story'”

Peacock’s Dark Comedy Explores America’s Obsession with True Crime

Peacock’s latest series, “Based on a True Story,” a sardonic and highly entertaining thriller, is a must-watch for those who enjoy dark comedy and are fascinated by America’s obsession with true crime. Created and written by the mastermind behind Prime Video’s fantastic comedy series, “The Boys,” Craig Rosenberg, the eight-episode series, is available to stream on Peacock.

Plot

The story is set in the backdrop of the Westside Ripper, a serial killer who is terrorizing Los Angeles. The plot revolves around Ava and Nathan Bartlett, a couple who are struggling to make ends meet. They discover the killer’s identity and negotiate with him, offering to do a podcast with him, hoping to make a profit. The caveat is that he must stop killing. But will he? Morals and ethics become collateral damage in this fast-paced, gripping thriller that puts the entertainment industry’s morals into question.

Characters

The main characters, Ava and Nathan, are convincingly portrayed by Kaley Cuoco and Chris Messina, respectively. They have successfully sold the idea that their on-screen portrayals are that of a desperate couple in need of a plan to make money. The secondary characters, like the hot plumber Matt Pierce (Tom Bateman) and vapid Ruby Gale (Priscilla Quintana), add a perfect blend of humor to a dark theme.

Indictment of True-Crime Culture

The show’s central theme is a hilarious indictment of society’s obsession with the true-crime genre and the media’s continuous stream of sensational content to feed that addiction. The show satirizes those who profit from the “dead bodies of white women.”

The Uncomfortable Reality of Murder as an Art Form

The show is a perfect blend of dark humor and a horrifying reality – that murder is still murder, irrespective of how lucrative or entertaining it may seem. The show takes the viewer on a disturbing yet amusing journey into America’s obsession with the true-crime industry and the gruesome details of murder. It cleverly satirizes podcast culture, true-crime hosts, and ID channel programming, making it highly relatable to those interested in this industry.

The verdict

“Based on a True Story” is a clever, twisted comedy series that packs a punch with its sharp writing and keen comedic timing. The show’s portrayal of the preoccupation with violent crime and sociopathic murderers is terrifying, yet entertaining. It is a thought-provoking, fast-paced thriller that is easily bingeable and thoroughly enjoyable. Definitely, a must-watch for fans of the genre and those who enjoy a dark comedy.