Name: Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2023-11-01T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Jens Söring, Rachel Ryan, Courteney Stuart, Elizabeth Haysom

The opening shot of Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom lingers on a pair of hands meticulously folding a note—a seemingly mundane act that would later become a pivotal piece of evidence in one of the most baffling true-crime cases of the 1980s. This Netflix docuseries, directed by André Hörmann, peels back the layers of a decades-old mystery: Did Jens Söring murder his girlfriend’s parents in 1985, or was Elizabeth Haysom the real killer? The series dives headfirst into this question, armed with fresh interviews, archival footage, and a narrative structure that keeps viewers on edge.

Hörmann’s direction is where the series truly shines. He avoids the pitfalls of sensationalism that plague so many true-crime documentaries, instead opting for a measured, methodical approach. The pacing is deliberate but never sluggish, with each episode building upon the last to create a cohesive, suspenseful arc. The use of archival footage—particularly from the original trial and subsequent legal battles—adds authenticity, grounding the series in tangible history rather than speculative drama.

The investigative journalists Rachel Ryan and Courteney Stuart serve as the series’ guiding forces, their relentless pursuit of the truth lending credibility to the narrative. Their interviews with Söring, conducted in Germany, where he has lived since his release in 2019, are some of the most compelling moments. Söring’s calm, articulate demeanor is a stark contrast to the horrific nature of the crime he’s accused of committing. His insistence on his innocence is delivered with such conviction that it’s hard not to question the veracity of the original trial.

The series’ strength lies in its ability to present multiple perspectives without leaning too heavily into any one narrative. Ryan and Stuart’s interviews with law enforcement officials, legal experts, and even Söring’s own family members provide a well-rounded view of the case. The documentary doesn’t shy away from the complexities and contradictions that arise when examining such a high-profile crime. For instance, the series delves into the psychological profiles of both Söring and Haysom, exploring their backgrounds, motivations, and the dynamics of their relationship. This depth of analysis is what sets Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom apart from other true-crime documentaries that often simplify or sensationalize their subjects.

However, the series isn’t without its flaws. The absence of Elizabeth Haysom’s direct participation—she appears only in archive footage—leaves a glaring hole in the narrative. While Söring’s perspective is central, the lack of her voice creates an imbalance that the documentary struggles to overcome. Additionally, while the case itself is undeniably intriguing, some of the revelations feel like retreads of familiar true-crime tropes. The series’ reliance on dramatic reenactments, though well-executed, occasionally veers into melodrama, undermining the gravity of the subject matter.

The performances—primarily from Ryan, Stuart, and Söring himself—are strong, but it’s Hörmann’s direction that truly elevates the material. The series’ originality suffers slightly from its adherence to a well-worn formula, but Hörmann distinguishes this case from others by focusing on the legal intricacies and the enduring questions surrounding guilt and innocence.

Thematically, Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom explores the complexities of memory, justice, and the fallibility of the legal system. The series raises uncomfortable questions about whether the right people were convicted, or if the truth has been buried under layers of time and bureaucracy. It’s a haunting meditation on how easily narratives can be shaped—and reshaped—by those in power.

As for who this series is for, it’s a must-watch for true-crime enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in legal dramas. The case itself is a fascinating study in the nuances of guilt and innocence, and Hörmann’s direction ensures that even those unfamiliar with the specifics will be drawn in. However, viewers expecting a neat resolution or definitive answers may be left wanting—this is very much a story still unfolding, with no easy solutions in sight.

The series also stands out for its exploration of the broader implications of the case. It delves into the cultural and societal factors that influenced the original trial, including the media’s role in shaping public perception. The documentary doesn’t just present the facts; it contextualizes them within a larger framework of justice, morality, and the human tendency to seek simple answers to complex questions.

In terms of craft, Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom excels in its use of visual storytelling. The series employs a variety of techniques, from slow zooms on key pieces of evidence to stark, black-and-white reenactments that emphasize the gravity of the events being depicted. The sound design is equally effective, with a haunting score that underscores the tension and unease permeating the narrative.

The story itself is compelling, but it’s the way Hörmann weaves together different strands of evidence and testimony that makes the series so engaging. Each episode builds on the last, gradually uncovering new layers of the case and challenging viewers to reconsider their assumptions. The documentary’s refusal to offer easy answers is both its greatest strength and its most frustrating weakness.

The performances by Ryan and Stuart are noteworthy for their professionalism and dedication. They serve as the series’ moral compasses, guiding viewers through the labyrinthine complexities of the case with a steady hand. Söring’s own performance—if one can call it that—is equally compelling. His calm, collected demeanor belies the gravity of his situation, and his insistence on his innocence is delivered with such conviction that it’s hard not to be swayed by his argument.

The series’ originality lies in its willingness to question the accepted narrative of the case. While many true-crime documentaries are content to retell familiar stories, Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom challenges viewers to think critically about the evidence and consider alternative explanations. This approach sets it apart from other documentaries in the genre and makes it a standout entry in the true-crime canon.

In terms of genre fit, the series excels as a legal drama and a true-crime documentary. It combines the suspenseful storytelling of the best crime dramas with the meticulous attention to detail that characterizes the most compelling documentaries. Hörmann’s direction ensures that the series strikes a careful balance between these two modes, creating a narrative that is both engaging and informative.

Ultimately, Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom is a gripping, if flawed, examination of one of the most perplexing crimes of the 20th century.

Tags: Netflix, Courteney Stuart, Jens Söring, Rachel Ryan, Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom