Netflix dropped another gripping yet heartbreaking true crime documentary last week, as I am Vanessa Guillen was released on the platform. It proved another hit for the streaming giant, currently sitting tenth in Netflix’s top 10 with 7.5m hours viewed globally.
The film examines the life and death of US Army soldier Vanessa Guillen, and follow’s her family in their journey for justice. On April 22, 2020, the 20-year-old went missing from Foot Hood military base in Texas.
When her mother and sisters traveled to search for her and find answers, the Army’s criminal investigation unit did little to help them. Outraged at the Army’s inaction, the family began posting online using the hashtag #IAmVanessaGuillen and publicly pressured Fort Hood for answers.
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Two months later, human remains were found by a river, which were later confirmed to be Guillen. Around 12 hours after the remains were found, another soldier – 20-year-old Army Specialist Aaron Robinson – who police suspected was involved in Guillen’s disappearance, killed himself as he was approached by police.
During the search for Guillen, her family were joined by hundreds of activists at Fort Hood in protest at officials’ inaction throughout the case.
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The case gained national attention and drew outrage from celebrities, Latinos, and other women in the military.
The fallout from the case led to Guillen’s family meeting then-President Donald Trump, and an investigation into Fort Hood’s command culture was ordered by secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy.
McCarthy said the investigation found “major flaws” at Fort Hood and a command climate “that was permissive of sexual harassment and sexual assault,” The New York Times reported. The family’s actions eventually led to Congress enacting legislation that would help prevent crimes within the military from being covered up.
Since the documentary’s release, viewers have shared their shock at the “hard to watch” film, with some saying it made them “sick to [their] stomach.” On Twitter, @cvilly__ said: “I’m honestly sick to my stomach after watching I Am Vanessa Guillen on Netflix. Her family is god sent for what they’ve done in her honour.”
@chevone_e added: “I Am Vanessa Guillen will make you tear up, make you angry, but it is a must watch.”
@_virginiarose: “I am Vanessa Guillen was incredibly hard to watch and it broke my heart. God may she rest in peace.”
Others were full of praise and support for Guillen’s family, particularly her sister, Lupe Guillen, who was described as a “warrior.” @KamPossible_3 said: “Sending so much love to you Lupe you are such a warrior and are doing an amazing job honoring your sister’s legacy and helping to protect so many.”
@vincecbs13 said: “I just finished #IAmVanessaGuillenNetflix. Incredible, the power of love and family is beautiful and so inspiring. I have so much respect for the family.”
I Am Vanessa Guillen is available to stream on Netflix now.
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