Making a Murderer

Audience emotional responses to 'Making a Murderer' are primarily driven by a profound sense of **Anger** at the perceived injustices, potential police corruption, and systemic failures within the legal system. This is closely followed by **Anxiety** due to the high stakes of the criminal case, the uncertainty surrounding Steven Avery's and Brendan Dassey's fates, and the constant tension as new evidence and legal challenges unfold. Viewers experience strong **Empathy** for Steven Avery, Brendan Dassey, and their families, who are portrayed as victims of a flawed system, especially given Avery's prior exoneration. A significant level of **Confusion** arises from the conflicting narratives, ambiguous evidence, and the series' deliberate presentation of events where 'things are never as they appear,' prompting viewers to question the truth. This also fuels intense **Curiosity** as the documentary's investigative nature compels audiences to delve deeper into the complex case and seek understanding of the events and their broader implications. The grisly nature of the crime, coupled with the detailed legal proceedings and implications of systemic corruption, contributes to a deeply **Disturbing** viewing experience. Underlying these dominant emotions is **Sadness** for the victim's tragic circumstances, the long imprisonment of Avery, and particularly the plight of Brendan Dassey.