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

This originally aired in 2023.

The Curious Case of Natalia Grace is a true crime documentary series that discusses how a family adopted a daughter who was not who she seemed to be. The show aired on Investigation Discovery in six parts.

The Barnett family decides to adopt a Ukrainian orphan named Natalia who has a condition known as Dwarfism. Though being told she was 6, they started to notice odd behaviors that were sometimes frightening and suggested she is older. Claiming she is an adult, they set her off on her own as her alleged violent behavior increased. However, years later, the Barnetts face accusations of child abandonment and abuse that shine a different light on the case.

Truly, I do feel sorry for Natalia. While neighbors in one place she lived seemed to corroborate allegations of scary behavior, there is really no evidence outside of their testimony. It could be true, but looking at her from the perspective of a child who was consistently abandoned by a family who claimed to love her.

In fact, this documentary does a good job of telling the story. Mr. Barnett might have been found not guilty of abandoning Natalia, but he will never be forgotten. It leaves you without a sense of justice being served, but you definitely feel sorry for Natalia and the smears thrown at her when she was just a child.

Check out the trailer below:

PARENTAL CONCERNS: Disturbing discussion on child abuse, Strong foul language

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