I Love You, Now Die: The Commonwealth v. Michelle Carter (HBO)

About I Love You, Now Die: The Commonwealth v. Michelle Carter (HBO)

"I Love You, Now Die: The Commonwealth v. Michelle Carter (HBO)" is an instructive two-part documentary that dives deep into the case of Michelle Carter, a young woman accused of urging her boyfriend, Conrad Roy III, to commit suicide over text messages and phone calls. It presents an analysis of the complex legal story and raises questions about technology, mental health and our legal system's struggle to keep pace.

Making / Production

The documentary is directed and produced by Erin Lee Carr, known for her knack in covering true crime stories. The executive producer is Sheila Nevins, who is the former president of HBO Documentary Films. The production showcases actual footage, interviews and court testimonials to lay out a gripping narrative.

Actors

• Michelle Carter - The documentary doesn’t include actors playing the parts, but real footage of people involved in the case. Michelle Carter, in news coverage and court videos, portrays herself. The documentary recounts her growth from a young teenager to a woman facing a significant legal battle.
• Conrad Roy III - Similarly, Conrad Roy III appears through real-life text messages, videos and family pictures, showcasing a troubled young man struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The documentary was originally aired as two separate episodes, totaling nearly 140 minutes of run-time.
• It includes numerous text messages between Carter and Roy, many of which were crucial evidence in the legal proceedings.
• The film features an interview with Jesse Barron, the journalist who first broke the story in Esquire magazine.

Quotes

• "The issue isn't whether she's a good kid or a bad kid; the issue is what did she say and what did she do." - Prosecutor Maryclare Flynn
• "You're finally going to be happy in heaven, no more pain, no more sadness. It's okay to be scared and it's normal. I mean, you are about to die." - Text from Michelle Carter to Conrad Roy III

Music, Soundtrack

• The music is composed by Ian Hultquist, offering a chilling and suspenseful complement to the unnerving narrative.
• Music pieces include the eerie “Texting”, the melancholic “The Questions”, and the suspenseful “Going to the Beach”. Each track contributes a tense atmosphere, highlighting the darker themes of the series.