I'm not sure why there were so many negative reviews. I had no expectations going into it and that's probably why I really enjoyed the documentary and found the story engrossing and intriguing. If you go into it thinking there will be answers and it will be neatly tied up at the end, you won't get that. This documentary reflects real life... Messy and frequently you're left with more questions than answers.
The story of the family is paced well and gives a well rounded understanding from the start as it takes you through the heartbreaking decline and breaking apart of a beautiful and idyllic family life. The trauma this family experienced is horrendous and I found the story telling from those both with and without schizophrenia to be particularly interesting. Very well put together.
I found myself furious at some of the siblings, but in a family where trauma, emotional distancing and mental illness has been an issue, it really makes sense how divided and distant the siblings are and the various perspectives based on how they coped with all the madness. I found the ending particularly interesting with Mary's kids.
If you are interested in mental illness and the way it deeply effects and damages families, and are not thinking you will receive answers, than I think you will truly enjoy this documentary. Only negative was the editing that was poorly done with each episode cutting off with the streaming. You miss the the last minute of every episode.
