The documentary “The Truth About Jussie Smollett?” for Netflix raises more questions than answers about the 2019 hate crime hoax that saw actor Jussie Smollett falsely report an attack on himself. The film, directed by Gagan Rehill, is part of a growing debate about truth and media manipulation in America.
Smollett claimed to have been attacked by two white men yelling racist slurs in Chicago in 2019. However, he was later found guilty of felony disorderly conduct for fabricating the incident and serving six days of a five-month sentence. His conviction was overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court in November 2024.
Rehill’s documentary aims to spark a conversation about Smollett’s story, rather than presenting one clear narrative. The director wants viewers to “have a conversation, a debate” about their opinions on the case. While some have praised the film for shedding new light on the incident, others have criticized it as a rehashing of old arguments.
The documentary highlights the erosion of trust in mainstream media and law enforcement, particularly during the Trump administration. Rehill believes that people’s skepticism towards traditional narratives has led to an increased acceptance of alternative truths.
As the film’s title suggests, the truth behind Smollett’s alleged hate crime hoax remains unclear. The documentary is now streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to form their own opinions about this highly divisive case.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/jussie-smollett-truth-in-new-netflix-documentary-1236348143