A Baffling Murder Trial of Epic Proportionsby Anonymous

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September 18, 2005: I first saw 'The Staircase' when it was shown on The Sundance Channel early this year. Because of the Scott Peterson trial, the Michael Peterson trial did not interest me. After watching the entire series I was as confused at the verdict as I was from the first frames. Did Michael Peterson actually kill his wife? I honestly do not know. The coincidences in his life having two women close to him falling down flights of stairs (Germany and North Carolina) seemed too insane to me. What are the odds of that happening? And yet, as the verdict is read, my mind is whirling Did he do it?! If I had been on the Jury I could not have voted guilty. The characters (and there are many)in this film are shown warts and all. The surprising thing for me is the house where Mrs. Peterson died is the real 'star' of this film. The house, like Jocelyn Pook's haunting music, will draw you in. Beautifully photographed, beautifully edited, incredibly informative, with music that will mesmerize you, this is one DVD you must buy this year. You probably won't be able to watch all eight hours at once, but over a period of a day or two or three, you will find yourself marveling at this incredible story. I still cannot tell you if Michael Peterson is guilty or innocent. It is a real mystery.