Unless you’ve been taking a break from social media, you’re likely aware of Netflix’s gripping original series, Making a Murderer. I delayed watching it for as long as possible, still riding the wave of a Luther binge. However, when my daughter, a college sophomore home for winter break, suggested we start the series together, I couldn’t resist. When your college-aged child asks for quality time, you seize the moment. Thus began a marathon viewing session that left us utterly captivated.
Living in Minnesota, the regional nuances didn’t impact our experience as much as they might for others. If you’re from Minnesota, Michigan, or Wisconsin, you might recognize people similar to the Avery family. I was surprised to learn that some subtitles were used—something I hadn’t noticed until a friend pointed it out. Initially, the nostalgic quirks of the upper Midwest in the 90s, from mullets to oversized glasses and those quirky owl lamps in Dolores Avery’s home, provided a humorous backdrop. However, as the narrative unfolded, it became the sole focus of our attention.
For those unfamiliar, the series follows Steven Avery, a Wisconsin man wrongfully convicted of sexual assault and attempted murder in 1985. After spending 18 years in prison, advances in DNA testing exonerated him. Although Avery had his own legal troubles—including a deeply unsettling incident involving a family cat—his wrongful conviction revealed glaring flaws in the original case.
Just two years after his release, Avery found himself back in a legal battle, accused of murdering local photographer Teresa Halbach. I won’t share further details to avoid spoilers; you can check it out on Netflix for the full story.
As a mom with nearly 22 years of parenting experience, I view everything through a maternal lens, and this series was no different. My heart ached for Dolores Avery, a quiet, weary woman, as she recounted her visits to her son in prison. “Even when it was icy, I drove there,” she said in her distinct accent. Anyone familiar with harsh winter driving knows that navigating icy roads is no small feat, but a mother’s love often outweighs such fears.
Another poignant mother figure in the documentary is Barb, Brendan Dassey’s mother. Brendan, a tragic character caught in the investigation of Halbach’s murder, has several recorded conversations with his mother that reveal their deep bond. One particularly heartbreaking moment occurs when Barb reassures her son, who struggles with self-doubt: “You’re not stupid to me.” For any mother who has comforted a child grappling with insecurity, those words resonate profoundly.
The stories of these mothers highlight the stark realities of parenting. From Dolores’s unwavering support for her son to Barb’s emotional breakdown amid a swarm of reporters, each woman faces unimaginable challenges. We also hear from Teresa Halbach’s mother, who, though less visible, bears the heaviest burden in this tragic saga.
The documentary shines a light on the various factors that shape our parenting experiences—resources, education, socioeconomic status, and more. It’s a complex tapestry that influences how we raise our children and the lives we ultimately provide for them.
The narrative flows like a tangled sheet falling from a linen closet—frustrating yet compelling, challenging logic at every turn. If you haven’t yet seen it, I highly recommend it. You may find yourself feeling anger and sadness, but your perspective on life’s challenges may shift significantly.
After watching, the pile of dirty dishes in my teenager’s room no longer felt like a personal affront. And yes, I hugged my kids. As tight as I could.
In summary, the emotional journeys of the mothers in Making a Murderer offer a profound commentary on parenting, resilience, and the complex realities many face. If you’re interested in exploring home insemination, this article links to a great resource about home insemination kits and reproductive endocrinologists, which can provide valuable insights. Additionally, Hopkins Medicine offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.