The Staircase
The Staircase
The Staircase
Documentary
Crime
75
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Overview
Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, presents a gripping courtroom thriller, offering a rare and revealing inside look at a high-profile murder trial. In 2001, author Michael Peterson was arraigned for the murder of his wife Kathleen, whose body was discovered lying in a pool of blood on the stairway of their home. Granted unusual access to Peterson's lawyers, home and immediate family, de Lestrade's cameras capture the defense team as it considers its strategic options. The series is an engrossing look at contemporary American justice that features more twists than a legal bestseller.
Status: Ended
First Air Date: 2004-10-07
Runtime: 0h 49m
Director: Jean-Xavier de Lestrade
Writer: Jean-Xavier de Lestrade
Top Cast
Michael Peterson
Michael Peterson
Self
Ron Guerette
Ron Guerette
Self
Tom Maher
Tom Maher
Self
David Rudolf
David Rudolf
Self
Bill Peterson
Bill Peterson
Self
Official Videos
The Staircase | The Owl Theory | Netflix
The Staircase | The Owl Theory | Netflix
The Staircase | Official Trailer [HD] | Netflix
The Staircase | Official Trailer [HD] | Netflix
Episodes - Season 1
Crime or Accident?
Crime or Accident?
Episode 1
Following his wife's suspicious death, Michael Peterson speaks about his version of the events while lawyers and expert witnesses prepare for trial.
Secrets and Lies
Secrets and Lies
Episode 2
As Michael's hidden life comes out into the open, defense experts debate if it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.
A Striking Coincidence
A Striking Coincidence
Episode 3
The death of another woman close to Peterson from 17 years earlier sparks a new investigation. She also died on a staircase, casting major doubts over the defense case.
A Prosecution Trickery
A Prosecution Trickery
Episode 4
As the trial looms and media attention heats up, an autopsy report's wording ruffles the feathers of the defense team.
A Weak Case
A Weak Case
Episode 5
The prosecution presents its case while the defense strives to cast a reasonable doubt within the minds of the jury.
The Prosecution's Revenge
The Prosecution's Revenge
Episode 6
A witness brings surprising levity to the stand. The judge rules on an important matter, and Michael's alleged temper comes under scrutiny.
The Blow Poke Returns
The Blow Poke Returns
Episode 7
Kathleen's sisters pore over Michael's writings. Jurors visit the staircase at Michael's home. A vital piece of evidence reappears.
The Verdict
The Verdict
Episode 8
Is Michael Peterson guilty or not guilty? The jury delivers its verdict regarding the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen.
Reopening the Case
Reopening the Case
Episode 9
Eight years later, the possibility that a key witness for the prosecution may have misled the jury could prompt the need for a new trial.
The Last Chance
The Last Chance
Episode 10
After more experts testify about the questionable conclusions and claims of Duane Deaver, the judge rules on whether a new trial is necessary.
Looking for Closure
Looking for Closure
Episode 11
Following two and a half years of house arrest, Michael must decide whether to push for a plea or risk his freedom with a new trial.
Between Anger and Despair
Between Anger and Despair
Episode 12
Their faith in the justice system forever shaken, Michael and his family discuss what they can hope to achieve by continuing the fight.
Flawed Justice
Flawed Justice
Episode 13
Michael speaks to a reporter about the reasons behind his plea. Later, Kathleen's sister delivers a statement of defiance in court.
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