“The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst” (2015) is a six-part HBO docuseries that delves into the bizarre and troubling story of Robert Durst, a real estate heir suspected of multiple murders. Directed by Andrew Jarecki, this gripping series combines investigative journalism with true crime storytelling to create a narrative that is as compelling as it is disturbing.

The docuseries explores three main cases connected to Durst: the 1982 disappearance of his first wife Kathie, the 2000 execution-style murder of his longtime friend Susan Berman, and the 2001 killing and dismemberment of his neighbor Morris Black. Through a combination of archival footage, re-enactments, and extensive interviews with Durst himself, the series paints a complex portrait of a man who has managed to evade justice for decades.

What sets “The Jinx” apart is its unprecedented access to Robert Durst. Jarecki conducted over 20 hours of interviews with Durst, who proves to be a fascinating and unsettling subject. Durst’s odd mannerisms, his seemingly candid admissions, and his often contradictory statements create a sense of unease that permeates the entire series.

The structure of “The Jinx” is masterful, building tension and revealing new information with each episode. Jarecki skillfully weaves together the various threads of Durst’s life, creating a narrative that is both chronological and thematic. The series not only recounts the events of the cases but also explores Durst’s privileged upbringing, his estrangement from his powerful family, and the psychological factors that may have influenced his actions.

One of the most compelling aspects of the series is its exploration of the intersection between wealth, power, and justice. The documentary raises questions about how Durst’s family connections and financial resources may have helped him avoid prosecution for so long. It also examines the frustration of law enforcement officials who believed Durst was guilty but lacked the evidence to convict him.

“The Jinx” is also notable for its use of dramatic re-enactments. Unlike many true crime documentaries that rely solely on talking heads and archival footage, this series includes stylized reconstructions of key events. While some critics found these re-enactments unnecessary, others argued that they helped to visualize complex scenarios and maintain viewer engagement.

The series builds to a stunning conclusion that made headlines around the world. In the final episode, Durst is confronted with new evidence and, in an off-camera moment apparently unaware that his microphone is still on, mutters what seems to be a confession. This moment, which led to Durst’s arrest, blurred the lines between documentary filmmaking and active participation in an ongoing investigation.

The impact of “The Jinx” was immediate and significant. The day before the final episode aired, Durst was arrested in New Orleans on charges related to Susan Berman’s murder. The series not only brought renewed attention to these cold cases but also potentially played a role in bringing Durst to trial.

Critically, “The Jinx” was highly acclaimed. It won two Primetime Emmy Awards and was praised for its compelling storytelling, innovative structure, and the way it pushed the boundaries of the true crime genre. Many critics noted how the series managed to be both entertaining and journalistically rigorous.

However, the series also faced some ethical questions. Some critics argued that the filmmakers may have withheld evidence from law enforcement to create a more dramatic conclusion to their series. The timeline of events surrounding Durst’s apparent confession and subsequent arrest also came under scrutiny.

Despite these controversies, “The Jinx” remains a landmark in true crime documentary filmmaking. Its blend of investigative journalism, psychological portrait, and dramatic storytelling created a uniquely compelling viewing experience. The series not only shed new light on a decades-old mystery but also raised important questions about the nature of truth, the reliability of memory, and the complex motivations that can drive a person to commit heinous acts.

In conclusion, “The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst” stands as a pivotal work in the true crime genre. Its innovative approach to storytelling, its unprecedented access to its subject, and its real-world impact make it a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime or documentary filmmaking. Whether viewed as a character study of a troubled individual or an examination of how wealth and power can influence the justice system, “The Jinx” offers a gripping and thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the final credits roll.