Netflix's American Vandal Review: 4 Ups & 3 Downs

Ups...

4. It 'Gets' True Crime Documentaries

From the dark and serious opening, through the unbelievable presentation of very believable events, down to the graphical representation of timelines, characters and events, American Vandal looks like another Netflix true crime documentary. Even though its subject matter is rather juvenile, if not childish, the way it's presented is very mature.

The titular vandal is a very conflicted, divisive character. He has a history of misbehavior, however it's hard to deem him guilty without a shadow of a doubt. What's more, Dylan is a rather likable character - a harmless goof with a good heart and a wicked tongue.

There are conflicting stories, arguments between filmmakers, and typical high school drama presented like a regular crime story. This proves that this particular, true crime formula, can make everything look serious and gripping.