A few decades ago, Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald L. Goldman were murdered outside Nicole Brown Simpson’s home. Prime suspect, Orenthal James Simpson (aka O.J.) was at the forefront of the case. As history has told, Simpson was found not guilty.

Ryan Murphy, best known for creating “American Horror Story”, has decided to make a show that tells the story of the events that transpired throughout this case, showing both sides. The show is eloquently subtitled “American Crime Story.”

Bringing on a great cast, impressive cinematography, and amazing writing, “The People vs. O.J. Simpson” looks to be one of the best dramas this year

The cast is diverse and full of well-known, top-notch actors. Cuba Gooding Jr. plays the lead as Simpson. Gooding Jr.’s performance is phenomenal and could cast a shadow of doubt in one’s mind. Gooding Jr.’s dramatic scenes are the ones that really make him shine, most notably the lie detector scene, where his lawyer, Robert Shapiro, tells him he failed the test. This results in Simpson breaking down and proceeds to yell at Shapiro.

Sarah Paulson’s portrayal of Marcia Clark is memorable as well, playing a prosecutor that’s hell-bent on seeing Simpson go to prison. The determination and stubbornness that she presents the viewer is what will make her one of the standouts of the show.

John Travolta does a notable job as Robert Shapiro, Simpson’s lawyer. David Schwimmer, Courtney B. Vance, and Sterling K. Brown fill the rest of the cast. Unfortunately, it feels as if Schwimmer can’t hold his own with these great actors. His portrayal of Robert Kardashian feels underwhelming and cheesy at times.

The way the show is shot is superb, making it feel more like a crime thriller movie than a TV show. Scenes show the tension and drama with grace, allowing the viewer to be immersed in the experience. The opening was so well shot that it will give anyone watching the chills.

The strongest aspect of this show is how well-written it is. The show does an amazing job at showing both sides of the story. It makes it much more interesting that the viewer gets to see the show through Simpson’s eyes at times.

However, the show isn’t solely about Simpson. In fact, it’s more about the case itself and the lawyers that are fighting on both sides. The conversations between all characters are meaningful and all lead to something more important. The writers are showing viewers what they don’t know- it’s all about events that happened behind closed doors. This aspect of the show makes it even more fascinating, adding another layer to this historical event.

As far as flaws go, there aren’t many. The show is so well put together that it’s difficult to nitpick at it. With the exception of Schwimmer’s performance, which will hopefully improve as the show goes on, nothing brings this show down. This is what new show premiers should be modeled after.

Much like when people meet up and talk about “the Walking Dead” or “Game of Thrones,” people will gather to talk about “the People vs. O.J Simpson.” It has the ability to become the next phenomenon because there are so many great things about the show. It’ll leave you wanting for more, especially after the ending of episode one. “The People vs. O.J Simpson” has that spark that new shows have been lacking. With top notch writing, an amazing cast, and great cinematography, not watching “the People vs. O.J Simpson” is a crime you can’t get away with.