‘Natalia Speaks: The Curious Case of Natalia Grace’ True Crime Docuseries Review

This aired in 2024.

The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: Natalia Speaks is a six-part true crime documentary series that aired on Investigation Discovery. It tells the story of Ukrainian-born Natalia whose former adopted parents claimed she was actually an adult in disguise and now the six-year-old they thought.

Natalia Grace tells her side of the story. We hear how she escaped Europe and was adopted by one family before ending up at the Barnetts. Through medical and DNA evidence, we learn that the Barnetts did lie about her age. She was not an adult pretending to be a child, but a child who had been through some serious trauma. We are also introduced to the Mans, a pastoral family who seek to officially adopt her.

I would like to say that the Barnetts are creepy. Michael, even if he was belittled by his ex-wife, should have grown a spine and protected Natalia, but he did nothing. He tried to put all of the blame for the abuse alleged by Natalia onto her, but it becomes quite clear he was involved more than he let on. Also, his lawyer is a scumbag. With evidence proving Natalia was a child when she was adopted by the Barnetts, he engaged in some serious victim blaming.

That being said, it does seem like this story will not be ending any time soon. While it expands on information giving in season one, you still feel like all parties are leaving things out. This leaves you feeling that you are happy Natalia gets to confront Michael, you have no sense of justice, especially with its shocking ending.

Check out the trailer below:

PARENTAL CONCERNS: Disturbing topics, Violence, Distressing discussions of abuse

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, anime, movie, or novel you would like me to review.