In 1984, a magazine of child pornography sent to Arnold Friedman led to an investigation that accused him and his son Jesse of sexually abusing multiple children.
“Who do you believe?”
Synopsis
In 1984, a magazine of child pornography sent to Arnold Friedman led to an investigation that accused him and his son Jesse of sexually abusing multiple children.
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Synopsis
Arnold Friedman taught computer classes in his home in Great Neck, New York, during the 1980s. In 1984, a postal investigation revealed child pornography linked to him. By 1987, authorities uncovered more evidence, leading to accusations against Arnold and his son Jesse for abusing students. Capturing the Friedmans includes home videos recorded by Arnold's eldest son, David, during this tumultuous time. The film features interviews with family members and legal experts as Arnold and Jesse maintain their innocence amid a community in turmoil.
What Critics Say
The movie lifts the lid on this seething cauldron of unspoken, unspeakable shame, takes a good long peep within and then drops the lid again with a clang.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See home videos from the Friedman family during the investigation.
- Find out about the 1984 postal interception that started the case.
- Meet Jesse Friedman and his fight for exoneration in 2020.
Did You Know
- The film premiered at the 2003 Sundance Film Festival and won the Grand Jury Prize.
- In 1984, a magazine of child pornography sent to Arnold Friedman was intercepted by the USPS.
- Arnold Friedman was sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to multiple charges of sodomy.
- Jesse Friedman filed a federal civil rights lawsuit in March 2020 against Nassau County.
- As of 2025, Jesse Friedman's litigation for exoneration remains ongoing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed Capturing the Friedmans?
Capturing the Friedmans was directed by Andrew Jarecki.
What charges were Arnold and Jesse Friedman convicted of?
Arnold and Jesse Friedman pleaded guilty to multiple charges of sodomy and sexual abuse.
What significant event triggered the investigation into Arnold Friedman?
The investigation into Arnold Friedman began in 1984 when the United States Postal Service intercepted a magazine of child pornography sent to him from the Netherlands.
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