In the landscape of documentary filmmaking, true crime has emerged as a compelling genre, attracting an audience that craves an understanding of humanity’s most perplexing behaviors. Off The Fence (OTF), a renowned production company, is gearing up to dive deeper into this intriguing arena by entering into a development agreement with investigative journalists Robin Carter and Gloria Gomez. This partnership signals an evolution in how stories about crime and justice are told, blending journalistic insight with cinematic storytelling.
With extensive backgrounds in journalism and investigative reporting, Robin Carter and Gloria Gomez bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the realm of true crime. Carter, a photojournalist with over 30 years in the field, has covered a wide array of subjects, from standard news to intricate special projects. Her pivotal role at NBC 5 since 2019 has only solidified her reputation as a versatile and dedicated professional. On the other hand, Gomez has spent two decades specializing in court cases and criminal justice coverage for the Tampa Bay FOX 13 News team. Both individuals are not just reporters but also storytellers who understand the sensitive nature of crime, making them invaluable assets for OTF.
Their collaboration will give birth to a new documentary series, commencing with “Love & Death Row: The Rosalie Bolin Story.” This project delves into an extraordinary narrative within the U.S. criminal justice system, one that is marked by complex relationships and moral ambiguity. The tale includes convicted rapist and serial killer Oscar Ray Bolin, who was caught and tried for his heinous acts in 1986, and Rosalie Martinez, who intertwined her life with his from the moment they connected on his defense case in 1995. The depth of this narrative reflects not just on the criminal actions of Bolin but also on the captivating dynamics between Martinez and Bolin, inviting viewers to consider the psychological aspects of love, loyalty, and justice.
Celine Ritchie, OTF’s Head of Development, encapsulated the allure of stories like “Love & Death Row” accurately, noting the fascination that emerges from exploring “stranger-than-fiction” cases. Off The Fence has demonstrated its knack for forging partnerships that yield gradual and layered explorations of tough subject matter. This commitment highlights the essence of effective storytelling: the need for authenticity and grounding in the lived experiences of those involved. By focusing on complex narratives that require nuanced representations, OTF contributes to a growing discourse surrounding crime that goes beyond the surface-level shock value often seen in mainstream media.
In addition to their endeavor with Carter and Gomez, Off The Fence is also co-developing the feature documentary “King of Kandahar,” produced in alliance with Makuhari Media. This three-part series chronicles the life of Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed Iqbal Selanee, an interpreter-turned-commander of a CIA-directed paramilitary unit, who played pivotal roles in saving lives during wartime. Here, OTF extends their reach beyond the criminal justice lens, showcasing heroic narratives that seldom receive the attention they deserve in traditional war documentaries.
This not only underscores the potential for generosity in storytelling but also highlights a transformational shift within the documentary space. OTF is leveraging their success from projects like the Oscar-winning “My Octopus Teacher” to redefine what it means to produce impactful documentaries. With a rich catalog of over 700 hours of programs for notable platforms (including National Geographic and BBC), their commitment to storytelling is both vast and rooted in impactful, compassionate narratives.
As Off The Fence boldly navigates this transformative journey into true crime storytelling, they set the stage for a comprehensive examination of narratives shaped by personal histories and societal implications. This shift could not only redefine public perceptions of true crime but also enrich the viewing experience by inviting audiences to consider the broader human conditions underlying these complex cases. Through the emerging partnerships and compelling storylines, OTF is poised to make significant contributions to the genre, ultimately paving the way for an era where depth and empathy coexist alongside the grim realities of crime.