(Credits: Netflix)

Truly, sometimes fact is stranger than fiction, as the most terrifying stories are not always made-up but inspired by real-life incidents. Behind the photo of a perfect smiling couple who seem normal, from a quiet corner of life, is a hidden storm of crises. And when the cracks are revealed, they bring forth unimaginable horror into the lives of not just those associated with the victims but others, thus making the recipe for a perfect Netflix true-crime documentary.

One such chilling story was recently released by the streaming platform, and it is going to give you the chills. A Deadly American Marriage, as evident from the name, is a true-crime documentary quickly climbing high up the Netflix charts. The reason behind the popularity is not just the jump scares or its gory nature, but because it is disturbingly real. And like so many other true crime stories, it begins with a seemingly perfect couple.

The story involves an Irish businessman, Jason Corbett, a widower from Limerick, Ireland. After the sudden death of his first wife, Margaret, in 2006 due to an asthma attack, he was left to raise their two young children, Jack and Sarah. After two years, he hired an American au pair, Molly Martins, to help take care of his children.

Very soon, this professional relationship evolved into romance, and the two got married in 2011. A short while after, the family moved to North Carolina, USA, to start a new life. And, almost four years after their relocation, the place served as the setting for the horrific incident that shook the foundations of the family.

On August 2, 2015, Jason was found dead in his house after suffering multiple blunt force injuries. Initially, Molly and her former FBI agent father, Thomas Martens, admitted to it, claiming it was for self-defence. They alleged that this happened because Jason was abusive towards Molly, and hence, during a violent altercation, they took a violent step to protect her. However, Jason’s family vehemently disputed these claims and asserted that the murder was premeditated, motivated by Molly’s desire to adopt Jason’s children and secure financial benefits.

One of the best parts about this documentary is that it meticulously examines the real proceedings that followed. Initially, the father-daughter duo was convicted of second-degree murder in 2017; however, they got their convictions overturned in 2021 due to trial inaccuracies.

Finally, in 2023, Molly and Thomas entered their pleas, where Molly pleaded no contest, whereas Thomas pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter, which resulted in a reduced sentence. Both of them were released in 2024 after serving a total of 51 months.

What sets A Deadly American Marriage apart from other documentaries is the way it presents the story from multiple perspectives. It also features both of Jason’s children, Jack and Sarah, who provided poignant insights into their father’s character and the impact of his death. Alongside, Molly and her father’s testimonials are included as well, hence offering viewers a comprehensive view of the conflicting narratives.

In a world full of content for true-crime documentaries, what makes this one on Netflix stand out is its compelling storytelling and unwavering commitment to truth. Though it is a difficult watch, it is an essential one.