10/10 Documentary on Prime Video is Absolutely Heartbreaking

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With the holidays here, it’s a great time to relax and watch some movies or shows, and Prime Video offers lots of choices. But if you’re not really into the festive spirit, Prime Video also has options for you. For those who prefer something a bit darker, like true crime, Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is a powerful and compelling choice.

Released in 2008, the true-crime documentary Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father continues to deeply affect viewers. While many true-crime documentaries now focus on sensational or unbelievable stories, Dear Zachary feels different. It’s a more intimate and realistic portrayal of a tragic situation, offering a touching message to a young boy caught in difficult circumstances. The result is a powerfully moving and respectful film.

Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is Still One of the Most Heartfelt True-Crime Documentaries of All Time

The death of 28-year-old Dr. Andrew Bagby in 2001 led investigators to his ex-girlfriend, Dr. Shirley Turner, who quickly became the main suspect. She fled to Canada while pregnant with Andrew’s child, setting off a complex and frustrating investigation. Andrew’s childhood friend, filmmaker Kurt Kuenne, decided to create a documentary for Andrew’s child, hoping to ensure they would know their father. However, what began as a loving tribute soon transformed into a much more heartbreaking story as the details of the case came to light. While there are many disturbing true crime stories, Dear Zachary stands out as uniquely devastating.

Image via MSNBC Films

MAJOR SPOILERS ahead for Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father.

Dear Zachary’s Story Collapses Into an Even Darker Nightmare

Shirley gives birth to Andrew’s son, Zachary, while living in Canada. This leads to a custody battle between Andrew’s parents, who attempt to become Zachary’s legal guardians, but are ultimately unsuccessful. Although Shirley faces murder accusations, she retains custody of her son. However, the court’s decision has devastating consequences. The documentary takes a tragic turn when Shirley kills Zachary and herself in 2003. What began as a message to Andrew’s son transforms into a memorial of Zachary’s brief life. It’s a heartbreaking event, as both father and son are killed by someone who was supposed to love and protect them. While true crime stories can sometimes feel distant, Dear Zachary powerfully reminds us that these are real people facing unimaginable tragedies.

Image via MSNBC Films

Dear Zachary is a difficult but essential documentary for anyone interested in true crime. It’s known for its sensitive and respectful approach to a tragic story. While quality varies on streaming platforms like Prime Video, Dear Zachary stands out as a profoundly moving film about a father and son who never had the chance to know each other. Even though the true-crime genre has changed since its release in 2008, Dear Zachary remains a standout and one of the best in its class.

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2025-12-25 22:34