Stars: 4/5
Creators John Erick and Drew Dowdle fabricated the story of “Waco” into a six-episode show that displays the cruel way the government, especially the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, treated the people of the Branch Davidians.
The Branch Davidians’ religious beliefs were led by their leader David Koresh. Koresh, believed to be the messiah, guides his people by the words of God spoken to him.
The show explains why the ATF began investigating the “cult” due to the number of guns ordered to their compound.
The series has perspectives from people within the house and from the FBI hostage negotiator. Michael Shannon, acting as the negotiator Gary Noesner, seems to be the only person who views the people of the religion as real people.
Having Noesner’s perspective allows the audience to understand that not everyone was against the Branch Davidians, but those in power seemed to see them as a threat.
This all plays out over the six episodes and each episode is packed full of explanations about each event that occurred. The show makes watchers understand the foul play that took place by ATF and FBI.
It is very saddening to see how many people died due to the lack of respect the government had for their religion. As viewers watch, the feeling of sympathy and anger will arise and you will soon be on the side of the Branch Davidians–or, at least, I was.
The show was cast exceptionally well with David Koresh played by “Friday Night Lights” star Taylor Kitsch. Kitsch was able to fully capture the role of the messiah and make viewers able to fully understand how Koresh thought of himself.
The reason for the 4/5 is because of the lack of explanation of the religion. They brush on topic in every episode and reveal certain mannerisms that take place. However, I feel they could have gone into more detail on how the religion had flaws, especially where children were concerned.
Not only is the show informative, it also has a romance aspect between two supporting characters. This show should be pleasing for all viewers, and even if you go into it not knowing anything about the Waco incident, you will completely understand what is going on in each episode.
I recommend this short series for those looking for a show to finish quickly so it doesn’t distract you from your schoolwork. “Waco” is a show that uncovers the flaws in the government and also gives a voice to those killed despite their innocence.