True Story

Christian Longo brutally murders his wife and three children, committing a heinous act that shocks the community. This tragedy sets off a series of events that ultimately lead to his arrest and trial.

Longo is apprehended by the police in Mexico after evading capture for some time. He had been living under the false identity of Michael Finkel, a reporter for the New York Times, further complicating the situation.

In New York City, journalist Michael Finkel faces a career downfall after being accused of fabricating parts of a story. His firing from the New York Times leaves him struggling to redeem himself in the journalism world.

Finkel receives a call from a reporter at The Oregonian about Christian Longo, who has been misusing Finkel's name. Intrigued by the case, Finkel decides to investigate deeper into Longo's story.

During their first prison meeting, Longo expresses admiration for Finkel's writing. In a unique agreement, Longo offers to share his story in exchange for writing lessons and confidentiality during the trial.

As Finkel continues to communicate with Longo, he becomes fascinated by Longo's complex personality and ambiguous guilt. They begin to draw unsettling parallels between their lives, illustrated through Finkel's correspondence with Longo.

In a dramatic courtroom scene, Longo pleads not guilty to two charges of murder but shockingly admits guilt for the murder of his wife and one daughter. This revelation shakes Finkel's belief in Longo's innocence.

During his testimony, Longo describes a violent argument with his wife and the moments leading to the tragic events. His account portrays him as a man driven to rage, attempting to justify his actions to the jury.

Finkel's wife Jill witnesses the unfolding trial and later confronts Longo in jail, confronting him about his actions and labeling him a narcissistic murderer. This moment reflects the emotional toll the case has taken on Finkel's family.

Longo is found guilty of all charges and sentenced to death. In a chilling moment, he winks at Finkel, revealing the manipulative game he has played throughout the trial, leaving Finkel feeling betrayed and angry.

After Longo's sentencing, he claims memory loss regarding the murders during a subsequent meeting. Finkel, now determined to reveal the truth, vows to expose Longo’s deceit and the manipulation he has endured.

Finkel experiences haunting thoughts of Longo while promoting his book, 'True Story.' This public appearance serves as a reminder of the impact Longo has had on his life, despite their physical separation.

A year after the trial, Longo confesses to the murders of his family, revealing the chilling truth hidden behind his earlier claims. This confession underscores the deep complexities of his character and the case.

Despite the distance between them, Finkel and Longo maintain a relationship, speaking monthly. Their twisted connection endures as Longo continues to write articles from death row, further complicating the ethical implications of their interactions.