Who Killed Garrett Phillips?

About Who Killed Garrett Phillips?

Who Killed Garrett Phillips? is a riveting true-crime documentary series released in 2019. It delves into the 2011 murder of 12-year-old Garrett Phillips; and subsequent trial and acquittal of Oral "Nick" Hillary. The two-part series provides a deep dive into the investigation while raising critical questions regarding police, prosecutorial conduct, bias, and issues of race.

Making / Production

The series was masterfully directed by Liz Garbus, an acclaimed filmmaker known for bringing gritty realities to the screen. It was produced by HBO Documentary Films, offering the high-value production and storytelling style typically associated with HBO's brand.

Actors

• Oral "Nick" Hillary: Nick Hillary, the main subject, showed his life’s ups and downs on the screen and conveys a strong portrayal of resilience amidst adversity.
• Garrett Phillips: Garrett Phillips, despite being the victim, posthumously plays a central role through testimonials and memories shared by family and friends.
• Cyndi Sturtz: Cyndi Sturtz played herself and gave an authentic representation of a grieving community member, adding to the documentary's emotional depth.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series takes its name from the unresolved question surrounding Garrett Phillips' death, which still divides the community of Potsdam, New York.
• The footage was shot over a span of three years, capturing real-time events and developments in the case.

Quotes

• "The system is not made for men of color, or people of color.” - Nick Hillary
• "It's been a journey that no parent should have to walk" - Tandy Cyrus, Garrett's mother.

Music, Soundtrack

• Who Killed Garrett Phillips? features an eerie and suspenseful soundtrack that underlies the plot, enhancing the series' emotional impact and tension.
• The music in the series is composed by Ivor Guest and Robert Logan, adding another layer of depth to the mysterious and tragic narrative.