Murder at the Cottage: The Search for Justice for Sophie

Unlike the sensationalism and speed of the Netflix documentary, Jim Sheridan's series is more contemplating and filled with heartfelt sadness. In that way I prefer this documentary, even though I was very hesitant at first.

The director in person, carefully sheds light on all the facts, the testimonies, the mistakes in the research, the need to find justice.

During my visits to West Cork with my family I have come to fall in love with the beautiful country. It is heartbreaking to find out about the dreadful event that took place over there and realizing that true justice is still not served.

One man claims he is innocent, many say the opposite but the irrefutable evidence is lacking. Nevertheless the documentary remains gripping to the last minute. All the details, the conversations, the emotions. I loved its attention to detail, the background information, the facts, the doubt, the beautiful landscape that was once the silent witness of the crime committed.

In The Netherlands (my country) recently a well-known research reporter was killed. Peter R. De Vries was very famous for overlooking all the facts and using modern forensic research methods to solve cases like these. I would have liked to hear his opinion on this case and if there would be a way to find true justice.

I've seen this case draw out over 25 years. This documentary doesn't answer any questions. Why did Ian Bailey kill her and is there any actual evidence?

Considering it took twelve years to make this documentary, I'm not impressed with the quality at all. The style is very old fashioned and the content is lacking, especially when compared to West Cork (podcast on audible) which brings everything to life and is packed with information about Bailey's background, Sophie Du Plantier, the case, and an abundance of interviews with all the key figures. This show contains unnecessary cringe-worthy moments such as Sheridan's narration saying "She's buried in France but her soul is in Ireland." Give me a break. I am giving it a six because I'm generous, but I think even that is pushing it.

Watching both the Netflix documentary and this one, it's easy to see which is more focused on fact and letting people, and the story, speak for themselves.

Watching the first five minutes of this alone, you can see how much Jim Sheridan allows his ego and droll opinion to influence his efforts to tell HIS story, not THE story. Oh, and if you didn't know Jim was a 6 time Oscar nominated filmmaker, you will, after being informed very first thing in the film. And in every review. And every summary of the series. And he's almost the first thing on camera, before the story. It's bizzarely strange how it all seems like a self promotional film at times...

His narration and conclusions are mind numbing and baffling to the point of questioning his judgement and mental state. If he truly spent 12 years making this, one might conclude he allowed himself to get too close to the matter (and some individuals) and couldn't see the forest through the (Xmas) trees...

This doc, as opposed to the Netflix one, actually lets you decide things for yourself. Presents the case and a compelling way while not "telling you" who they think did it. Also, really interesting to see the irregularities in the police work on this case that the Netflix doc just glosses over in favor of pushing a certain narrative. Would definitely recommend this doc!