Review

Unbelievable is one of those rare shows that manages to tell an uncomfortable and often heartbreaking story while keeping you utterly engrossed from start to finish. Based on real events, this limited series takes on a difficult subject—sexual assault—and tells the story with sensitivity, precision, and, most importantly, an unwavering commitment to truth. It’s a show that will have you questioning what is real, much like the characters at its core.

Unbelievable: the quiet power of Netflix's fact-based rape drama |  Television | The Guardian

One of Unbelievable's greatest strengths is how it handles multiple perspectives, keeping the audience on edge as they piece together the tragic events that unfold. The show’s ability to make viewers feel the frustration, disbelief, and anguish of its characters is a testament to both the writing and the performances. Each episode peels back layers of a complex investigation, making you feel as if you’re unraveling the mystery alongside the detectives.

The performances of the three female leads—Merritt Wever, Toni Collette, and Kaitlyn Dever—are nothing short of exceptional. Wever and Collette, as the determined detectives, are a powerhouse duo, balancing empathy with relentless drive. Wever's portrayal of Karen Duvall is both calming and commanding, showing how compassionate investigation should be done. Collette’s Grace Rasmussen brings a more hardened, no-nonsense approach, but the chemistry between the two is electric, creating one of the most dynamic crime-solving duos in recent memory. And then there’s Kaitlyn Dever, who delivers a gut-wrenching performance as Marie Adler, a young woman failed by the very system meant to protect her. The vulnerability and raw emotion she brings to the role make her story unforgettable.

Unbelievable (TV Mini Series 2019) - IMDb

But what makes Unbelievable stand out even more is its ability to provoke real, visceral emotions in the viewer. This is a show that will make you uncomfortable—not because it’s gratuitous or graphic, but because it’s so devastatingly real. Watching the detectives meticulously piece together evidence, while knowing that others failed to believe the victims, is both frustrating and deeply moving. The series expertly portrays the contrasting outcomes of justice—how it can work well for some but fail others, all without tipping into melodrama.

This series is an absolute must-watch for everyone—not just because it’s brilliantly acted and expertly crafted, but because it tells a story that needs to be heard.

Final Thoughts

In a sea of crime thrillers and detective series, Unbelievable manages to rise above, not with flashy twists or shock value, but with an unwavering dedication to telling the truth. It’s a harrowing yet hopeful story, one that forces the audience to confront the reality of sexual assault while offering a glimpse of justice done right. Exceptional storytelling and standout performances make Unbelievable one of the most powerful shows of recent years.