Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story

Documentary exploring Cyntoia Brown's journey to freedom

Watch on Netflix
About Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story

Released: 2020

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 37m

Cast

About Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story

Explore

About

Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story is a documentary film that was released on Netflix in 2020. It tells the story of Cyntoia Brown, who gained national attention and became a symbol for justice reform after being sentenced to life in prison at the age of 16.

The film follows Cyntoia's journey from her troubled childhood and being a victim of sex trafficking to her trial and eventual release nearly 15 years later. Through interviews, archival footage, and personal recordings, the documentary sheds light on the flaws within the criminal justice system and the impact of trauma on juvenile offenders.

Making / Production

Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story was directed by Daniel H. Birman, who had previously made a documentary about Cyntoia's case titled "Me Facing Life: Cyntoia's Story" in 2011. This new film serves as an update to her story, documenting her journey since the previous documentary was released.

The documentary was filmed over a period of several years and includes interviews with Cyntoia, as well as her family members, lawyers, and experts in the field of juvenile justice. The filmmakers also obtained access to court footage and other documents related to the case.

Actors

  • Cyntoia Brown - Cyntoia Brown Long
  • Family Members - Georgina Mitchell (Mother), Ellenette Brown (Adoptive Mother)
  • Defense Attorneys - Charles Bone, Houston Gordon
  • Juvenile Justice Experts - Beverly McAlpine, Dan Birman (Director)

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The case of Cyntoia Brown gained national and international attention, leading to calls for justice reform and a reevaluation of how the criminal justice system treats juvenile offenders.
  • Cyntoia's release from prison in 2019 was the result of years of advocacy and support from various organizations and individuals who believed in her case.
  • Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story sparked further discussions about the issues of sex trafficking, trauma, and the criminalization of young girls involved in such situations.

Awards

As of now, Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story has not received any major awards.

Quotes

  • "I'm not saying that I deserve anything. I'm not saying that I'm a saint. But I'm saying I did not deserve a life sentence." - Cyntoia Brown
  • "The story of Cyntoia Brown is a powerful testament to the need for justice reform and the importance of understanding trauma." - Director Daniel H. Birman

Music / Soundtrack

  • The documentary features a score composed by Michael Carey, which helps to create an emotional and impactful atmosphere throughout the film.
  • There are also licensed songs used in the documentary to further enhance the storytelling and evoke certain emotions.
  • An official soundtrack album for Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story has not been released.