American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders is a Netflix political true crime documentary series that explores the suspicious death of journalist Joseph “Danny” Casolaro (June 16, 1947 – August 10, 1991). It is directed by Zachary Treitz who also acts as the host for the show.

Danny Casolaro was a journalist who wrote about boxing, Cuba, and Soviet activities, but also dabbled in novel writing. After he stumbles on a connection between Inslaw, a digital case management system, and the Justice Department, he begins to unravel a conspiracy with ties to the CIA. In 1991, he is found dead in a hotel room after telling close friends that his death would be no accident. Zachary Treiz and his colleagues interview friends, family, colleagues, and other figures in pursuit of an answer about Casolaro’s death. Did he take his own life or did nefarious forces make sure he stayed quiet?

A lot of people claim they have stumbled on something and that they are in danger while what they found was very mundane. Casolaro was definitely onto something. How far it went, I am not sure, but I have no doubt that the government stole Inlaw’s technology so they could use it for their own gain. We basically know this about the government after President Trump declassified a lot of CIA documents.

As for the docuseries itself, it does teeter on the line of chasing down rabbit holes that lead nowhere. That did provide some boring points, but overall, the focus on Casolaro and his work was very compelling. They vaguely mentioned Casolaro’s fictional writing and I would have liked to know more about that.

With this in mind, however, I still found myself intrigued with all four episodes as this web of lies spun by the government began to unravel. What happened to Casolaro? Who is to say, but it is clear that he was onto something.

Check out the trailer below:

PARENTAL CONCERNS: Disturbing topics, Some foul language

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, anime, movie, or novel you would like me to review. While you are at it, check out my reviews of Can I Tell You A Secret and The Program: Cons, Cults, and Kidnapping. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more posts like this one.

Connect with me on social media. You can support StudioJake on Locals.