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nlpieter
Reviews
Lance (2020)
Well made about a pure evil person
The documentary concludes with an exploration of the moral compasses of its subjects, particularly Lance, who is unarguably a figure of pure malevolence. His regret seems to derive more from being exposed than from remorse over his actions. Over a decade, he has wreaked devastation on numerous people's lives. The fact that he has managed to avoid incarceration for his deeds, not even considering his doping offences, is truly astonishing.
The documentary is skillfully crafted. However, certain background sounds might inadvertently elicit sympathy for Lance, which he doesn't warrant.
Lance, do all people a favor, and stay home and ride your boat! Also stop talking about other people!
Soupçons (2004)
Broken legal system
The entire buildup to the unexpected initial guilty verdict was full of craziness. The effort and money spent by the State is beyond any proportion. That a judge allows so many conspiracy theories and (potential) prejudices to be presented to a civil jury goes beyond any comprehension.
As a viewer we might not have been presented everything, but the final speech by her sister seems to summarize the craziness in full:
How on earth can you tell by someone's character if he/she committed murder?
The defense presented a very plausible explanation on how she fell and died. The State's explanation on the blood was proven to be incorrect. The defense overwhelmingly challenged the lack of head injuries usually found on victims of physical abuse (and worse). There seems to be enough reasonable doubt.
A jury is off the hook after a trial, and is unaccountable. A ruling by a jury of peers of which motive/knowledge/mindset can never be objectively assessed, reviewed or challenged is thus flawed by definition. And easy to point to afterwards. A judge is accountable, and should rule if a case has been proven beyond(!!!) a reasonable doubt.
Last but not least. As to what was presented to the viewer, it seemed that Michael's lawyer was pushing to hard for the plea deal. First by dropping out, and after his return focusing disproportionately towards a quick finalization. With the lack of evidence, the proven unreliable State's behavior, and evolved public sentiment towards inclusion it seems a guilty verdict would have been highly unlikely.