Unraveling The Mystery: Understanding The Octopus Murders on Netflix

American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders is currently available for streaming on Netflix. Discover what this documentary series is all about, who is involved, and whether it is worth your time.

Conspiracy theories have not always been linked to QAnon and Flat-Earthers. Prior to the emergence of these modern phenomena, they were rooted in genuine investigations and conversations based on concrete evidence.

The assassination of former US President John F. Kennedy is a prime example that was reexamined amid the 60th anniversary of his death. Even the doctors who were present that day are convinced Lee Harvey Oswald didn’t act alone.

Netflix’s latest true crime documentary series American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders explores what happens when belief transforms into an obsession, uncovering a web of politics, espionage, and potentially even murder. Warning: Some may find this content distressing.

Overview of The Octopus Murders

American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders is a four-part documentary series directed by Zachary Treitz. The series follows photojournalist Christian Hansen as he delves into the complex conspiracy theory known as "the Octopus." This theory encompasses a wide range of elements including software, spies, businessmen, organized crime, the Iran hostage crisis, the CIA, the FBI, the NSA, and the Ronald Reagan administration.

The conspiracy was dubbed after Danny Casolaro, a journalist who delved into a complex web of events in the 1990s while employed by the trade magazine Computer Age. According to Netflix's Tudum, Casolaro's investigation into a feud between the Department of Justice and INSLAW founder Bill Hamilton unexpectedly unearthed a network of dark and mysterious tales from the 1980s.

Hansen reveals in the documentary series that during a conversation with Bill Hamilton, Danny uncovers a web of influential individuals tied to the Reagan administration, leading him to discover that the situation at hand goes beyond a simple contract disagreement.

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Casolaro’s investigation revealed a complex network of interconnected conspiracies, which he dubbed "the Octopus." His relentless obsession with uncovering the truth drove him to dedicate all his time to unraveling as much information as possible about the mysterious web of deceit.

Casolaro's investigation in The Octopus Murders remained unfinished due to his untimely death. While en route to meet a source in West Virginia in August 1991, he was discovered dead in his Sheraton hotel room bathtub.

Despite authorities declaring it a suicide, suspicions linger that he was silenced before he could unveil the full scope of his findings. His wrists bore 12 deep slashes, some severing tendons, not typical of self-inflicted wounds. Moreover, the presence of blood spatters in the room contradicted the suicide narrative. Most chillingly, Casolaro had forewarned his brother shortly before his demise that any harm that befell him would not be accidental.

Filmmaker Treitz shared with Tudum that he and Christian have been friends since middle school. When Christian moved to New York City, Treitz stayed with him for a few months after graduating from college. As Hansen continued Casolaro's investigation with almost obsessive interest, he would share his findings with friends who initially found it intriguing but eventually grew concerned about his fixation. Treitz recalled moments when they tried to intervene in small ways to support Hansen.

Treitz decided to take on the documentary project during the time of Michael Riconosciuto's release from prison, one of the key sources for Hansen and Casolaro. When they went to retrieve him, Treitz felt like they were continuing the work left by Danny.

Who’s in The Octopus Murders?

Both Zachary Treitz and Christian Hansen are featured in American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders, along with Michael Riconosciuto and a group of experts and individuals linked to the case.

Eric Weidman, who works in maintenance at the Sheraton Hotel, is also involved in the investigation.

Charles Work, former deputy administrator, Department of Justice

Ann Klenk, journalist and Casolaro’s friend

Tony, Casolaro’s brother

Terry Miller, computer contracts expert

John Power, former homicide detective

Bobby Moses Nichols, John Philip Nichols’ son

Eddie Erdelatz, former homicide investigator, SFPD

Cheri Seymour, investigative journalist

Ben Mason, Casolaro’s friend

Norma Digiancinto, former AETNA office manager

Thomas Gates, former FBI special agent

John and Marianne Higgins, son-in-law and daughter of Mary Lehnert

Zachary Treitz and Christian Hansen in American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders

Netflix****Zachary Treitz and Christian Hansen in American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders

The Netflix docuseries is produced by Duplass Brothers Productions with Stardust Frames Productions, who previously collaborated on the cult doc Wild Wild Country. As for who’s behind the camera,

Treitz, speaking to Tudum about creating The Octopus Murders, described it as a horror movie experience for him. He mentioned being drawn into the story and highlighted the cautionary tale within the events involving Danny, himself, and Christian.

"Is The Octopus Murders worth watching?"

"I hope that [the series] will inspire people to do real, heavy research and write [Freedom of Information Act requests] and really dive in if they want to know the answer to something,” he continued. “What we did, it was a fascinating and fun process, very rewarding."

Netflix's American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders has garnered positive reviews, although it is too early for a Rotten Tomatoes score.

According to RogerEbert.com, the film's intriguing story is enhanced by director Zachary Treitz's unique approach. Treitz injects a heavy dose of skepticism into every aspect of the narrative, even questioning the possibility of Danny's murder. The twisted tale is presented through the perspective of another journalist, offering a fresh and compelling take on the story.

Decider recommended streaming "American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders," describing it as a fascinating exploration of a case with significant implications for the US government in the 1980s and '90s. The documentary also sheds light on how journalists can become deeply involved in stories that may have modest beginnings.

You can watch "American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders" on Netflix.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the intriguing world of conspiracy theories, exploring the case of the Octopus Murders. It highlights the relentless pursuit of truth by journalists Danny Casolaro and Christian Hansen, who uncover a complex web of political intrigue and potential foul play. The article effectively captures the sense of mystery and danger surrounding the investigation, leaving readers eager to discover the outcome.

The article also raises important questions about the role of journalists in uncovering the truth and the potential risks they face. Casolaro's untimely death and the suspicious circumstances surrounding it serve as a chilling reminder of the dangers that can accompany investigative reporting. The article prompts readers to reflect on the importance of protecting whistleblowers and the need for transparency in government operations.