The Staircase

The Staircase is a compelling miniseries that delves into the mysterious death of Kathleen Peterson, found at the bottom of a staircase in her home. The series, created by Antonio Campos, explores the subsequent trial of her husband, Michael Peterson, a novelist accused of her murder. Starring Colin Firth as Michael and Toni Collette as Kathleen, the show navigates complex family dynamics and intense courtroom drama. The miniseries also features a French documentary team capturing Michael's ordeal, adding a unique layer to the narrative. The series premiered on HBO Max in 2022 and consists of eight episodes. It masterfully uses multiple timelines and flashbacks to keep viewers engaged, while exploring themes of guilt, innocence, and the justice system. The performances are exceptional, with Colin Firth delivering a nuanced portrayal of Michael Peterson. The show's pacing is well-balanced, maintaining suspense throughout. It is based on the 2004 documentary series of the same name by Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, which chronicled the real-life case and its aftermath.