Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills

Paradise Lost is, among other things, a fascinating look at the way outside forces (like religious prejudice and the media, including the makers of "Paradise Lost") influence trials. Mainly, through, it is a haunting crime story, a mystery in the true sense of the word. [14 Mar 1997, p.05E]

It's a haunting portrait of the effect of violence on its survivors, an examination of the fallacies of our justice system, and a harrowing snapshot of the workings of a small town. It's also a remarkable piece of filmmaking. Don't miss it. [03 Jan 1997, p.6G]

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills is unique among courtroom documentaries in that the filmmakers, Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky, seem to have had complete access to both sides of the trial process, including private family meetings, conferences with lawyers, even sessions in the judge’s chambers.

Part of what has always set “Paradise Lost” apart from other courtroom thrillers is that it is not simply about the legal proceedings; it’s a portrait of how grief and anger convulse all sides.

This deeply disturbing film is more than a voyeuristic account of a lurid crime. It's an examination of the soul of a nation, and, boy, things don't look good.[06 May 1996, p.F06]

A fascinating, revealing, and deeply disturbing— if highly imperfect—documentary feature by Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky.

Paradise Lost is fascinating, repellent and exhausting. [09 Jun 1995, p.T4]