TV Critic Hannah Lapworth reflects on Netflix’s latest docu-series about Jeffrey Epstein, arguing that it gives his victims the voice they never had
Content Warning: This review contains themes of sexual assault which some readers may find upsetting.
Netflix’s latest docu-series, Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich, is the latest exposé of sexual assault committed by rich, white men in power. Over the course of four one-hour episodes, the trauma Epstein left behind because of his sex offences is unearthed. This eye-opening show details the vile exploits of a man so sure he could cheat the system that it took years for any allegations against him to be taken seriously.
This eye-opening show details the vile exploits of a man so sure he could cheat the system
Each episode interviews survivors of Epstein’s abuse, allowing them to give their testimonies in a way they never got to before. Filthy Rich follows survivors’ journeys to acceptance and advocacy, letting them give a play by play of events on their own terms. We view how they have coped with their trauma, and in some cases see a live reaction to new developments in Epstein’s prosecution.
As well as unmasking Epstein, Filthy Rich also incites other key players within his web: Harvey Weinstein, Prince Andrew, Donald Trump and Ghislaine Maxwell to name a few. The high-profile nature of this cohort is not shied away from, and the show is not scared to make strong claims about people’s involvement. It is also interesting to see how some key figures attempt to distance themselves from Epstein’s abuse – going so far as to be interviewed on Filthy Rich – despite allegations against them from the survivors.
Epstein’s interrogation tapes, which are woven throughout the show, are analysed by a professional and are interesting to watch. It is clear that this was a man who thought he could get away with anything. He even had his own private island where women were kept for his beck and call, unable to escape.
Letting the survivors become the narrators of their own stories allows them to take back a part of the narrative they lost
This deeply tangled web of trafficking runs deep within the celebrity world, and the show attempts to unpick a timeline of Epstein’s abuse, ending with the aftermath of his alleged suicide. It consults professionals, attorneys and survivors to paint a full picture of the damage done by Epstein. Filthy Rich is certainly a negative criticism of these abhorrent events, but it is also much more than that. Letting the survivors become the narrators of their own stories allows them to take back a part of the narrative they lost when Epstein entered their lives. Their strength and courage give a sense of hope for what they will go on to achieve in their advocacy, simultaneously raising awareness of the horrors of sexual assault and trafficking.
Overall, I highly recommend watching Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich. It is a difficult watch, and highly uncomfortable at times, but it is very educational to see how the bail system really favours the rich, and how society will always protect white men in power. It is an insightful series, filled with controversy and strong women prepared to tell their stories. Filthy Rich is a must-watch.
Rating = 4/5
Guidance on obtaining help related to sexual assault can be found on the NHS website.
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