Name: Web of Make Believe: Death, Lies and the Internet
Genre: Documentary, Crime
Released: 2022-06-15T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Paul Black

The screen fades to black, and a voice whispers, “What starts out virtual can get real all too quickly.” This chilling opener sets the tone for Web of Make Believe: Death, Lies and the Internet, Brian Knappenberger’s 2022 Netflix docuseries that dives headfirst into the dark underbelly of the digital age. Co-produced by Ron Howard, this anthology series explores how the internet can be weaponized, turning pixels into peril.

Knappenberger structures each episode like a meticulously crafted true crime narrative, weaving together interviews, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments to tell stories that are as unsettling as they are compelling. The series’ strength lies in its ability to humanize the victims and perpetrators alike, making abstract concepts of misinformation and cybercrime visceral and immediate.

Take, for instance, the episode featuring Daniel Rigmaiden, a hacker whose story unfolds like a modern-day thriller. Knappenberger’s use of Rigmaiden’s own voice recordings and courtroom footage adds layers of authenticity, while the director’s decision to intercut these with interviews from law enforcement creates a tense, cinematic pacing that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The series also excels in its exploration of broader themes. The episode featuring Alex Jones and Donald Trump, for example, delves into the insidious spread of conspiracy theories and the real-world violence they can incite. Knappenberger doesn’t just point fingers; he examines the systemic issues that allow such misinformation to thrive, making for a thought-provoking watch.

However, Web of Make Believe isn’t without its flaws. The anthology format means that some episodes feel disjointed, with varying levels of engagement. While the Rigmaiden episode is a standout, others struggle to maintain the same narrative momentum. Additionally, the series occasionally leans too heavily on dramatic reenactments, which can feel gratuitous and detract from the factual rigor that documentary audiences expect.

That said, the performances—both from the interviewees and the actors in the reenactments—are largely commendable. Paul Black’s portrayal of Ryan in one episode is particularly noteworthy for its nuanced depiction of a victim caught in the crossfire of online deceit.

Ultimately, Web of Make Believe: Death, Lies and the Internet is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of the dark side of the web.

Tags: Netflix, John McCain, Paul Black, Web of Make Believe: Death, Lies and the Internet