Murder On A Sunday Morning




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Docurama > Murder On A Sunday Morning


	Color , 111 min + ex

San Francisco Chronicle, 3/29/200 >

$24.95 NOW $19.96

Cat#: NVG-9540
DVD Single

For ISBN and UPC codes see the A-Z Detail Listing

"Packs a one-two punch worthy of the most compelling detective story. You won't forget it."
- The New York Times

Murder On A Sunday Morning

Directed by Jean-Xavier de Lestrade

Beating out some of the most poignant and powerful films of the last decade, this gripping, edge-of-your-seat whodunit catapulted to the top of "must see" lists everywhere when it emerged to win the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. A mesmerizing thrill ride, MURDER ON A SUNDAY MORNING is invigorating and heart-wrenching at the same time--the stuff suspense novelists only dream of writing.Jacksonville, Florida, May 2000. Mary Ann Stephens is shot in the head at point blank range in front of her husband. Two hours later, Brenton Butler, a 15 year old black male, is arrested walking down a nearby street. Mr. Stephens identifies him. Butler signs a confession.Everyone involved with the case, from investigators to journalists, is ready to condemn Butler, except his lawyer, Patrick McGuiness. A dazzling and magnetic presence of Hollywood proportions, McGuiness reopens the inquiry, and in a dramatic and absolutely spine-tingling sequence of events, he and his team discover a slew of shocking and troubling elements about the case. Did Brenton write his own confession? Where is the concrete evidence? And most importantly, can the police be lying?

Cast Interviews; Deleted Scenes; Original Police Confession; Filmmaker Biography; Interactive Menus; Scene Selection

Wow. I saw the film last night on DVD and now feel compelled to say, please, please, Mr. McGuinness, quit smoking! We need you to stick around in this messed-up world for a long, long time. You are too important!

Also, Brent Butler's stoicism and dignity and his beautiful, courageous family were so heartwarming to see. I wish them all well.

Jen	11/30/2006

We've been watching this in my crimonology class for the past few days, and near the beginning its clear that the Butler didn't do it. And it's clear that the judicial systems, in this case atleast, aren't very clear and miticulous when dealing with this kind of case. What was most surprising, however, was that the Def. Attorny solved the case in four months and found the real guy! Who would of thought?

I'm deep impressed! I saw the Docu (Murder an a Sunday Morning).I am from Vienna/Austria/Europe.And You, Mr.Mcguiness and your helpful Partners are what make the U.S. great.NOT Mr.Bush and his (its !!!) Administration !!! I Thank You and I Thank God that You are there for our Brothers and Sisters, equal if they are red-,white-,pink-, or blackcolored Human-man-Kind.I wished every Innocent Person could have a Fighter on the side, like you are, Mr. Mcguinnes.And I wish You,Sir, a plenty of "Lucky Strike"s before having Sex....in the case you express it in the Docu and in every other ways... ;-) All the best from "good old Vienna", thankful, impressed Wolfgang P.

Flo	11/20/2006

Sad, sad, sad. Saw that docu yesterday on ARTE and was glued to the TV. An incredible story which made me feel sick. It is stunning how easily you get so deeply involved emotionally when a content so abysmal gets presented so powerfully.
I was on the verge of swearing everytime this honourable men opened their mouth spitting lie after lie. I became also mad at the prosecutor, which picked up a case against a child with no facts other than a dubious eye-witness and a forced confession. It was a nice touch by the camera man to pick up the friendly and comradly small talk between her and Mr. "cancerstick" detective...

While I was watching this great movie I got remined of an article in a science magazine of the asthonishing results gotten in experiments in a US University some thirty years ago. One of them goes like that:

A white male student asks a white elder person to show him the way. In an artificial interruption - two people carrying a door IIRC through them - which seperates the two the students gets replaced by another student. In a stunning amount of cases the elder persons just continued to talk not noticing the change...

Afterwards they were shown the videotaped evidence they simply could not believe that they couldn't believe their eyes...
Persons of similar age and of a similar class on the other hand were recognized with relative ease.

In this case the accused and the eyewitness belong to completly different social classes, race and age groups, making it extremly difficult to distinguish various member of this groups for the poor husband.

As he saw in the back of a police car a black person from a 15-20m away he simply convinced himself even if the meager description he gave spoke against it. Sad, sad, sad.

Great docu, thanks to all which participated in it, even to the police officers, it shows one that you have to check, recheck and double check your own actions and the ones of others in such delicate cases...

Murder on a Sunday Morning gave a probing look at how the United States court system can scrutinize someone. It's hard to believe police would force a teenager to confess to a crime like they did in the film. This documentary was a surprising look at reality. The film was also fairly interesting without the shock value. The Brenton Butler story was real, cold, and informative.

I saw this movie in my College Writting class. I was really shocked on the behavior that the law enforcement had towards Brenton. The lawyers did a great job by looking for all the evidence that they could get to proof that Brenton wasn't guilty. This word is base in racism and only because you are a certain skin color they automatically think your guilty or fit to any America Most Wanted picture, but they are wrong.

It is sad to say Brent was'nt the first to have such a horrible thing happen to him and he wont be the last but one thing that can make a difference is holding police and detectives accountable when they dont do their job the way it's suppose to be done.

It was amazing how the public defender defended Brenton Butler, a young Black man; I find disgusting and reprehensible the fact that police officers and detectives acted inadequately against Brenton. The truth of the whole matter was revealed at the very end of the film, and Brenton was declared innocent but I was disappointed because the sheriff and detectives involved did not receive their deserved punishment.

We can get less racist people to work for our judicial system to avoid these problems from happening in the future.

When I began to watch this video I couldnt believe what was going on. At first I thought that Brenton was the killer Cause I really didnt know who to believe, but as the story went on I noticed some racisim in the film and it all began when Brenton was arrested along with the husband pointing at him because he was a black male. Thanks to Patrick Mc Guiness and Anne Finell they never gave up and kept fighting till the end and proved that Brenton was NOT guilty.

Watching the movie with my class, it amazing me how everyone was upset you can say at the lack of investigation the police was enforcing. It shocked me to find out at the end that a lawyer solved the case, it really had me thinking about the staff. The movie was a good lesson for the society to know about this thing s that do happen eventhough its sad to see. More attention should aquired in this type of issues and people shouldnot be force to do things.

As a young black woman it saddens me to hear another on of our young black brothers are being unlawfully accused and trialed. This case is not the first and unfortunately not he last time some innocent person has been accused of a crime, the only real reason their a suspect is because of the color of their skin...the crime committed being alive and black. I think the police involved should have been suspended and or demoted and the settlement awarded to the family is the very least they could receive considering the lost they almost experienced.

I think they should fire the two police men and the detective because they were lying and because of law enforcement like them sometimes innocent people go to jail and they lose their freedom and part of their life paying for something they didn’t do. I’m glad they found him innocent because he looks like a nice guy. I hope he and his family are ok, but I think they will never forgot that terrible moment.

This movie showed me how we have lazy law enforcemnt. It was a shame how they took an innocent young boy and tried to charge him with murder. I feel bad for what him and his family had to go through.

Herbert Gonzalez

I recently had the opportunity to watch this great film and I’m truly grateful for it. It was time that someone took a stand against the police brutality and corruption that occurs everyday and so many people are afraid to expose. I believe that this film truly expresses the state in which our society currently stands. Though we may have come a very long way from our days of segregation there are still invisible barriers that divide us and if we are to thrive as a society we must learn to overcome them together as a society.

I can not believe something like this has happened once and probably is still occuring. It is crazy knowing that the real criminal, besides the real murderer, are getting away with no actions taken. Why is it that the police officer, which testified, was laughing at the public defender's questions and still was not punished for his lies under oath. The other guy who forced the kid to sign the paper and beat him was never even questioned about it. Why is that? This is something which should have thrown those two individual into jail without any questions.

I recently saw Murder on a Sunday morning in one of my English classes. To begin with the documentary was extremely powerful to say at the least. The way it was presented made it very easy to understand and it also kept my attention. It was very hard watching a 15 year old child being treated the way Butler was; for example being interrogated by the police for hours, or taken to the woods handcuffed and beaten by Detective Glover. This case was an obvious example of how racial profiling, and racism clearly still exists. I was appalled when all the detectives one after the other lied on the stand and admitted to not performing their jobs the way they swore to. There are a few lessons that can be taken from this case. First one being never to go with the police voluntarily, secondly never to speak with the Police with out an attorney present, but most importantly to be aware that even in this day and age the police are still racist, immoral and moments just liars.

This documentary was shown in my english class. After watching the documentay I couldn't believe what they put Brenton through. A 15 year old boy suffering 8 months in jail and was completely innocent. I just don't understand how someone can be so cruel to actually blame a innocent person for a crime he never commited. I found this documentation devastating but I was surprised with Breton's actions and how he was so calm and strong through out the trial. I wish Brenton and his family nothing but the best.

i saw the documentary in my english clas and i was so glued to the screen as i was eager to know the verdict. i was so shocked that even in this day the police will arrest and torment the suspects in that way.
this should be stopped by the detectives wanting to listen to what the suspects say.
they should stop stereo typing the suspects just because of their color or because they believe so themselves.

I SAW THIS STORY ON HBO/60 MIN A FEW YEARS BACK AN IT MADE ME PAY VERY CLOSE ATTENTION TO WERE MY BOYS WERE AT ALL TIMES.

THIS STORY HITS HOME BECAUSE THIS COULD OF HAPPEN TO ONE OF MY SONS. BRENTON LIFE WAS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN BECAUSE 2 COPS DID NOT TAKE THE TIME TO INVESTIGATE THE CASE, THEY JUST TOOK THE FIRST YOUNG BLACK BOY THEY SAW AN TRIED TO PLACE THE MURDER ON HIM

I have seen this movie as a student in Hudson community college. The story touched deep my fillings.
The police officers who supposed to help the sosaity, work hard to fined out the truth. They caused an easy way to blame a innocent 15-year-old boy, and point him as a killer. Thanks a public defender Pat McGuinness an honest and responsible man ,Brenton Butler was called not guilty.
I am not very optimistic of avoiding, such a situation in a future, because there are so many examples in human been history, so many mistakes which happen again and again.

I think Murder On A Sunday Mourning is a great documentary. It shows how crooked the law can be to black people. Brenton Bulter has sufferd at the hands of a racist detective who wanted to make a name for himself by solving a high profile murder. Detective Darnell cause a 15 year old kid physical and emotional stress for a case that took 45 minutes to get a verdict. I'am happy that Brenton and his family are reunited. His public defender was victorious. In the future, I think more skilled and experienced detectives should work cases of this nature. It would also help if the officers who sware to uphold the law do so.

I Think That the Police officer had very lack of the work towards the murder so he accused the first Black man he saw in I think that was wrong Because them four months later to find the killer in they didn't even find the killer he confesed to the murder they should've started looking after the the jury reached there verdict of not guilty he didn't deserve to be in there for 6-8 months being beated on by the police but he had a fair trial thats good that he had a very Happy Thanksgiving in was gathered around his family and friends.

I Think That the Police officer had very lack of the work towards the murder so he accused the first Black man he saw in I think that was wrong Because them four months later to find the killer in they didn't even find the killer he confesed to the murder they should've started looking after the the jury reached there verdict of not guilty he didn't deserve to be in there for 6-8 months being beated on by the police but he had a fair trial thats good that he had a very Happy Thanksgiving in was gathered around his family and friends.

Markida Elliott

I am a student from Hudson County Community College and my Perfessor showed the students in my class this film.
My reaction to this movie was just sad. But its a good film to show people the harsh that was done in this case. I look at the film and i cried because it was sad to see a young teenager being acused of something that he didnt do well because he is black. He was lock up for six months when he could have been in school or doing something postive. I mean six months wasted out of his life and the pain and suffering his family had to go through.The lies and the threats the beated from the police was just sad. The police should be fired. Am just happy that the jury did what was right. Am happy that he had a good lawyer because they represented hom good and they did they job the right way unlike the police officers who was off tasks and didnt put any effort to the case.
In my opinion to avoid something like this to not happen again the police should be on point number one. Number two when they have a murder case like this they should look into the case thero. All evidence should be look at and all question should be ask and viewed over until they get a understanding. And most of all the police officers should look into the case and realize what they done was wrong and should be fired. But everyone answers to what they do and them police officers lied under off that day.

i saw the movie in an english class and my reaction was i was so glued to the documentary as i was eager to find out what the verdict would be. i was co shocked to see that even in this modern days just because one is a young black male people will always assume them as criminals even without a whole lot of investitation. instead of the detectives getting information about the suspect they make their own conclussions and make the suspect sign the paper.
this can be prevented by the detectives always getting enough evidence before arresting suspects.
stop assuming that just because of the way one looks or their color they are criminals.in other words stop stereo typing.
i also believe that the detectives should stop terrorizing suspects to get information out of them.

I saw the movie in class and i thought it was great. First off, I dont think it was right that Brenton was locked up for something he didn't do. What should of been done was that they should of got the right information on the person who committed the crime instead of saying a black male with dark shorts, because that could of been anybody, so for future references i think things should be done right!!! And as for the cops beating on him, there should definately be more done than just a sue.....

I saw the movie in our class as part of our studies i'ts really good movie that everybody can get a lesson as a individual citizen. It's only sad because an inoccent person can be in jail for not commiting a crime andl the real killer is out there waiting for the next victim. Finally those detectives they should not be demoted to another department they should been punish for not doing there job correctly. It's a shame that we have this kind of policeman that we thought who could protect us from harm, intead they are the one who harm people too. For the family of Brendon there prayer was answer and justice was prevail.

My reaction to the documentary was myself actually feeling terrible that the court system is messed up like that. I had a notion that Mr. Butler was innocent, and the evidence proved that. I think they should’ve used other methods on catching criminals and instead of incarcerating the wrongfully accused. They shouldn’t used profiling like they did, like how that arrested Mr. Butler. I honestly think a fifteen year old boy would not be capable on shoot an old lady. The court systems took six months of this boys life away from him, and he can never get back that time.

I never really liked watchin documentaries becuase I thought they was boring but this one really open my eyes and had me really thinking about the whole situation. It's really sad how they did the 15 year old boy.To avoid things like this in the future they really need to get there evidence and facts right and go about it right away. And it's still sad that we still have racism going on in the world. Luckly for Brenton he had good decetives on his side. I am extremly happy about how it turn out for him and his family.

Trini-Girl[Rosemarie}

I saw the movie in my english and was very heart broken for Brenton and his family. This film was very informative to me it wroke me up to the realities of life as a black person. I bring praise to the people that documented this film it has truly change my prospective on life thank you . I believe that if the police had did a better investigation on this muder trial it would of saved the family and the courts a tremendous ordeal. I was asked by my prof. how can a situation like this be prevented in the future? My answer would be to have a better police system, more investigations, more follow ups. It's not about winning but bring the truth out.

Patrick McGuinness and Anne Finell are without any doubt worthy of praise. But the real hero in this story is the incredible young man who held his head up and endured with dignity, pain that no child should endure. Brenton Butler and his family should be an inspiration to us all and a reminder that strength of character is a powerful thing.

I borrowed this movie from the local library and was so glad that I did. I was so deeply moved by the Public Defenders' integrity, presenting all FACTS to this case. It is amazing that the investigators/detectives did not complete a thorough investigation basing their conclusions merely on a so called "positive identification". The saddest part is that Brent Butler and the actual killer had not one similar feature! It is truly scary to think that in the 21st century, people of authority still possess such ignorance and lack of professionalism and am truly embarrassed (as a government employee) to know that they still exist. For the Butler family, I can only commend you for your continued strong faith in the Lord. This is only another example how the Lord works and puts the wrong to rest.

I borrowed this DVD from my local library, and I'm so glad it was there. I had never heard of this case. Thank God Brenton had Mr. McGiunness and Ms. Finnel on his side. I just want to express my deepest gratitude to the public defenders office for a job well done.

I just recently watched this movie in my english class, and i saw many counts of racism in it. It all began in the time of the arrest, along with the husband pointing this innocent boy out. It is hard to avoid racism in the world, all you can really do is try to find a way to work with it while not offending anyone....

Im only in highschool but we had watched this film in my english class. My teacher had done a follow up on this case and the family of brenton butler had to settle for only $780,000 (i believe that was the exact amount) due to the judge of the lawsuit stating that the lawsuit wasnt valid. This film is a great film and i recommend it to anyone.

Having grown up in North Florida, I was not surprised to see the appalling behavior of the Jacksonville Police Department. Also doesn't suprise me that the cops weren't charged. I'd like to know the result of the suit by the family. They deserve everything they can get. And who can say more about Patrick McGuiness. He's a genuine hero; what a man.

Just watched it and came away enormously moved. Well Done to Patrick McGuiness and Ann Finnell who demonstrated integrity and strength of character that, of late, we often only see in mythical characters. A powerful document of our troubled times.

The public defender in this case is absolutly one great man. I think he should be up for a nobel peace prize for his efforts in this case !!!

I seen this movie for the first time and as I always knew that the criminal justice system is set up for " the black man" I am sadened by the way any man can have that much hatred to send a YOUNG INNOCENT KID to prison for the rest of his life just because he is black!! As for the husband.. I have to wonder what he feels like now?? Having lost his wife in a brutal murder and then be willing to send anyone away for the crime. He must feel bad about his self and he himself has to wonder about the criminal justice system !!!

I watched this documentary the other night and have spent days trailing the internet to find out how to get in touch with Patrick Mcguiness. I watch a lot of true stories and am always touched but none as much as this one. I felt i had to get in touch with Patrick to tell him what a remarkable and courageous human being he is. There are plenty of good attorneys out there but i doubt if they would have taken on this case with the heart and determination of Patrick Mcguiness. Most high profile laywers send out PI's to do their investigative work and it was encouraging to see Patrick McGuiness out on the road investigaing this himself going to the dumpster where the purse was found and going to interview the man who found it. I am no criminal and have never been in trouble with the law but if i was i should only hope to be lucky enough to find a lawyer like Patrick. Not only did he find justice but he saved Brenton Butlers life and exposed the police to be corrupt and abusive with no fear or regard for his own carrer. What a heroic man he deserves to be recognised and awarded for this case alone. What a guy. Go Patrick! Also i feel for Brenton Butler and his family. That must have been the worst period of their lives. I hope there is a follow up documentary to let us know what they are all doing now. I hope Brenton goes on to have a succesful career and happy life cause at the age of fifteen he has been through hell. Also i would like to know how Patrick is getting on and what other cases he is involved in. Again what a man and what a great human being. x

Brian McGuinness

In checking the Docurama site, I noticed that people are still seeing this film for the first time. Pat (my brother) and Ann Finnell have worked as tirelessly on many other cases but I would think viewers would sense that from the film. I attended the screening in Paris and a reception with over 200 French lawyers, many criminal defense lawyers at the MInistry of Justice. Pat and Ann did a lively question and answer session after the screening and the following day they received the Medal of the Paris Bar from the Paris Bar (Law)Assn for their important work in representing Brenton Butler. This was quite an honor apparently and not given often. I thought viewers who had seen the film would appreciate that they have received some recognition within legal circles.

I worked with both Mr. McGuiness and Ms. Finnel at the Public Defender's Office in Jacksonville, and they are both real heroes. I thought it important to tell everyone that this film does not fictionalize what actually happened-- as often happens in Hollywood. McGuiness and Finnel were portrayed accurately and the police misconduct was actually worse than what was portrayed in the movie. I stumbled into watch the trial, not knowing what I was watching. After about 15 minutes, with my mouth open, I wondered how this still happens in a free society. Very disturbing. And the weight that Finnel and McGuiness must have had on their shoulders . . . knowing that their client was INNOCENT and that they were the only thing standing between Brenton and life in prison! It must have been daunting.

I have just recently watched this documentry. I have never felt so angry whilst watching the television along with other emotions. It's unbelievable to know that the poice have so much power to convict somebody of muder without any investigation at all. It is even more unbelievable how you can be charged with murder just because you haapned to be a black male near the crime scene. i think this documentry will prove to the people that police racism does occur and that something needs to be done about the lack of equality from the police. I would also like to say that the whole way through the documentary i was stunned to see how dedicated everybody was the case. I think it was fate that brought such a genius lawyer to such a faithful family. I think the legal system needs more empolyees as dedicated to their occupation as Pat is. The documentary captured such a realistion to false imprisoment and unlawful conviction.
anna 17,uk

I watched the movie last night too and was moved by Mr Mcguiness involvement two things touched me the most and that was firstly where he said he wasnt able to say to the jurors that the Brenton was innocent but could only refer to the facts even though he believed him, the other what was kind of amusing at the same time was when one of the officers whom Patrick questioned said to him outside whilst he was having a cigarette -something to the effect of smoke another cancer stick- to which he replied i normally have a cigarette before sex and implied he was going to screw him in court when it came to questioning - anyway made me chucke and ever since i really want to make love to this man (by the way i am woman) - all in all so glad justice prevailed in a so called democratic society and i wish i get to meet Patrick one day he is so SEXY!!!

I watched this movie for the second time and was thoroughly moved by the story and if it were not for the attire of the people in this documentary drama, I would have sworn it was Alabama in the early sixties .

I just watched this documentary on BBC last night and couldn't believe my eyes and ears. I dread to imagine what would have become of Brendon if Pat McGuiness and Ann Finnell had not been around. I counted at least four grown-up men bent on sending an innocent 15yr to prison for life just because he happened to be the first black encountered not so far from a murder scene. It surprises me that in this age, many years after the KKk era, being black is still considered a crime.
To Pat and Ann I say thank you guys. Pat, you are a star. I wish you all the best in your noble career.
To Brendon and family I say God bless you. My email address is fanueljasi@yahoo.co.uk.

I could hardly believe I was watching real-life court footage. It makes me sick to think that people like this actually exist, important people in our society who supposedly keep us safe.

I wacthed this for the first time last night 22/02/2005 london. All i can say is im glad police racism and brutality has been brought to light as it has never left and that stands for everywhere in the world. I myself have expericanced the brunt of the police examination techniques and the sad thing about it is, knowbody will believe you and and im sure knowbody will believe when this happens again. Respect to Brent if that was me i would be hunting down the three joker detectives and the prosecution. 6 months in prison can not be given back. all he got was a sorry!!!

If there were more people in the world with the humanity of Patrick McGuiness........cherish the thought

I am from Belfast in Ireland and saw this documentary for the first time tonight. I was shocked to see the injustice and racial discrimination that Brenton suffered. The only reason that he was picked up was that he was black, nothing else, they had no proof. I can't believe that such racial prejudice still exists today, thank God for people like Pat McGuiness, with out him God only knows what could have happened, its a sad thought.

shame, shame, shame

Excellent documentary. It is unfortunate that Jacksoville, Florida remains to be left in winds of the past. This was definitely a witch hunt for an African-American male regardless of who it was just as long as he was black. Fortunately in the end it was the Jacksonville police department that looked foolish and inadequate. After this embarassment Brenton Butler should have a key to the city. The prosecutor, and the 3 officers involved should have lost their jobs and served time for their stupidity and plain old racism specifically the Glover!... shame...shame...shame

1/28/2005
I rented the DVD and was amazed to see that the Black-American in this country is STILL not free. I as sadened to tears to see this family have to defend their son against prejudice that remains hidden in the hearts of men. Moreover, the favor of God protected Brent from lies these evil men spoke against him. HALLELUHAH--THANK YOU JESUS!

I've finally watched this documentary last night and I can say this was a truly heartwrenching story. I cannot even phanthom what this young man could have been going through. The Public Defenders were awesome and I have a new respect for them. Just imagine how many people are out there that have been in the same situation but didn't have a caring defense attorney to help them out.

Ruben van der Meer

I saw it tonight for the second time and the thing I noticed again was that when Glover is answering you can see when he`s lying. He can give a straight answer to questions about his job or father but to questions about the case he looks away every time. As for Brenton Butler he never looks away once when somebody askes him something. It makes you wonder, what if Patrick McGuiness didn`t get this case... I hope he quits smoking and lives a long long time so he can help even more people.

Patrick McGuiness, keep up the fight!

I believe that an individual's tendency toward injustice occurs in small steps. Those who committed the injustices in this court case arrived at their place that masqueradse as justice, in baby-steps, it is only by allowing our conscience to be slowly calloused, that we can commit the big lie and tell ourselves it is only a little lie.

Pat McGuiness hit the nail right no the head when he said he didn't believe those of the DA, detectives, police and prosecution etc. to be honorable men. To think detectives would actually lie in order to send an innocent 15 year old boy to prison for the rest of his life is beyond believable. Dwayne Darnell, Michael Glover, James Williams you have been forever immortalized by this film and by your actions - you'll have to live with this embarassment for the rest of your lives.This movie does also neglect Mary Ann Stephens, the poor innocent victim, I'm sure her husband just wanted to nab the first black guy he saw - I hope the Stephens family is greatful for McGuiness in bringing the actual perp to justice. What a shame that you can't count on the police of Duval county but a public defender.

The reason that the real killer throw the $1,200 cash away that was in the vt's purse is that he grabbed the cash he could readily see and didn't think to really search the purse. I can't even amagine how Brenton and his family got through one day of the hell they lived in for six months. I think Ann Finnell was fantastic. She spent hours and hours with Brenton so he could tell his side and stand up physically and emotionally under cross examination. I wish we could have seen the cross examination. Ann is such an excellent attorney and a great match with Pat McGuinness in cases. Thank God Patrick McGuinness and Ann Finnell decided they didn't want to get rich instead of defending people who couldn't aford an attorney! It's easy to tell that Patrick McGuinness is a Rascal, but a very good kind of one. He must have a great wife?

I am a third year law student at marquette law school. I always have only wanted to be a prosecutor because they had discretion and could cut breaks do to justice. I also didn't want to represent guilty people and therefore didn't want to ever be a defense attorney. This movie changed my mind. I have since applied and interviewed with the public defender's office and now I know why they are necessary. Police sometimes lie and sometimes the defendants are the good guys. This movie absolutely changed my entire perspective. Awesome movie. It should be required watching in law schools around the nation. Excellent.

I saw Murder on a Sunday Morning yesterday evening on Norwegian television (Europe). This is the most moving documentary that I have ever seen. We should all be great full that there were people like Mr. McGuinness and Ms. Finnell around to stop this injustice. But think of what could have happened if they hadn't been on the case. In America you can sentence someone to death. Is this a form of punishment that shouldn’t be allowed bearing in mind what this documentary has shown us?

I saw the documentary yesterday on dutch television,by chance. I was zapping. I've seldom seen something like this. I'm a great fan of movies in general. Spielberg is one of my heroes,but i have to say Steven eat your heart out. This documentary showed every bad and good things we posses as human beings, but so true and sincere that it hurts like hell and feels good like ----- you name it! The sex remark, the genius, sympathetic, and persistent attorney Mc Guinness made to the cop made me jump with laughter. I think it is honesty of these painful levels that will bring solid changes in any injustice. Very well done mr director Jean- Xavier de Lestrade and team.

The docu is actually on tv right now. I already saw it on BBC. This is such a powerfull documentary. And that policeman can lie so much...is unbelieveble I bless the maker of this docu...because we saw the awfull truth.

I cannot reccomend this enough. The tension before the verdict was unbearable (even though I already knew he had been acquitted!), and just incomparable to fictional stories, such was it's superiority. Brenton Butler showed unbelievable levels of tolerance and calmness during this trial, I am 15 as well, and I am certain I could not have dealt with this. I'm sure his faith guided him, but I do think that anyone who says this film restores faith in God is being unbelievably myopic. This sort of injustice happens all the time, and if your faith in God is resotred, it should be because some people do something about it rather than the not guilty verdict. Two of these people are Patric McGuinness and Ann Finnell, and these people are inspirational lawyers, public servants and people in general. I personally have had my appreciation for public servants reinforced. Finally, Detective Williams is incompetant and lazy and should no longer be in public employment. Detectives Glover and Darnell are disgraces to their professions and to humanity. They should be jailed.

My partner and I viewed Murder on a Sunday Morning and were deeply moved by the film. It is amazing what those in a position of power can actually do. Who is going to be held accountable for all those months that Brenton Butler remained behind bars waiting to see if he will remain there for the rest of his life. All the law enforcement officers involved in this should be ashamed and fired for there role in this case. Most of all I would like to applaud the efforts of Patrick McGuinness for his compassion and devotion. What an amazing man. All the best to Brenton Butler and his loving family.

I have always tried to tell my students that justice is a wonderful thing but often hard to find. This movie goes about showing that. If we are to blindly look to our police officers and District Attorneys as heroes, well, we are in trouble. To think that the authorities could fabricate such a horrific case against an innocent boy, well, it is disturbing. Thank God, the myth that all Public Defenders are incompetent is just that, a myth. In this time where everybody that wears blue is considered a hero, it is important to examine just what makes one a hero. To me, someone that saves the life of an innocent is a hero. The police here did not do that. Patrick McGuinness is the true hero.

I wacthed this documentry, Murder on a Sunday Morning and I thought it was an amazing and extreamly moving case. Even though I have never been through a experience like the one Brenton Butler had to face I feel for him so much. I am 16 now and I dont know how I would have coped with this experience at age 16 let alone age 15. I just want to say to Brenton Butler that he is an extreamly strong determined person and I respect him so much for pulling through this ordeal. Well done take care and keep smiling. :o)

Being a brazilian citizen living in UK what i have to say is as much american citizen talk about freedom and freedom of speach - i have ended up that there are a lot to be done among us black, white, yellow, arabs, jews, christians and muslins for leaving in a better society. I hope case like the Brenton would not happen to anyone else accross the world

God Bless Brenton. I watched the documentry yesterday and I cried my heart out. I have realised that I should never give up on god and to have more faith in god. I would like to meet Brenton and say a big thankyou.When I am older I will go and find Brenton and show how much he has made me believe in god sooo much more.I am only 11 and he has made me realise so much. That Documentry touched my heart. Brenton was only a normal 15 year old boy, a scared boy spending 6 months in prison.....Brenton thankyou sooooo much and have a happy life . Don't forget I will come and show my thankyou someday... Until then THANKYOU.

This film was just shown on British tv last night. I watched, almost not comprehending what I was seeing. The only good I could take from it, apart from the charismatic Patrick Mcguinness, was that it simply could not happen in the UK. Our laws on dealing with juveniles are so strict that it would not have got beyong Brent being stopped ib the street. We also have laws about witnesses IDing people out of a controlled situation i.e. a police station. The judge at the end commented on the great legal system in the US, calling it the best in the world. He needs to open his eyes as does the entire country and sort out this appalling treatment of children. What would the judge have said if it was his son? This film MUST be compulsory watching for all trainee law enforcement staff, all potential lawyers and anyone withing the justice system. If I could say thank you to Patrick Mcguinness personally,. I would. THAT is a man.

Crystal Fielding

I have just watched Murder on a Sunday Morning here in the UK (I live in London). I just want to add that I thoroughly applaud the work of McGuinness and his team. Patrick McGuinness himself I was totally mesmerized by - his sensitivity plus quick wit and consequently his astounding ability to put together sentences and insights that will live in the mind of all truth-seeking individuals, plus his quiet dedication and the sheer humanity of the man - all of these things have made a deep and lasting impression. My best wishes to McGuinness and his team, and of course Brenton Butler and his family... oh, and Brenton's dog! Love, Crystal

Karmanie,United Kingdom

I believe that in life, you must have the courage of your convictions, to stand up and be counted when the time is right. Patrick McGuiness is such a person. Thank you for restoring my faith in the legal system (albeit a US one). I have first hand experience of the British legal system, and it is just as bad over here, if not worse at times. In fact we have police more inclined to protect the guilty in racist crimes. Check out any web sites about Stephen Lawrence's killing ten years ago.

I've just watched the documentary on television in England. The thing that really amazed me was the complete trust the Butler family seemed to have in the legal process. They just seemed to believe because he was innocent he would be found not guilty - after all they'd seen! Without a doubt the most unbelievable family values i've ever seen. I read above you got a settlement Brenton. I hope you understand for every dollar you recieved there was a white person out there who watched the documentary and just sat and cried. I'm just one of them.

I live in Norway and just saw the documentary tonite..I was amazed that the police thought they could get away with that..The poor boy must have been so afraid..I am so glad that Mr Mcguiness was able to do something about it..If anyone wants to email me on this subject my email is;norwaygirl123@hotmail.com

Roger Radford, London, England

That corrupt cop was right about one thing, Pat - you smoke too many cancer sticks. You are too precious a commodity, old chap, to injure your health in this way. Honest and brilliant lawyers are at a premium, in the US and here in the UK.

This documentary has just been shown on British television. My husband, a lawyer, and myself, a forensic psychologist, have just sat and watched it together. We were both stunned. We said to each other from the outset of the programme that neither of us believed Brenton Butler had committed this crime and that he struck us as a very pleasant young man. We were appalled at the attitude of the police officers and the bigotry that appears to be rife amongst them. God was certainly firing on all cylinders when he created Patrick McGuinness - what an incredible man and advocate. Despite all the anger and frustration whilst watching the programme, it was refreshing to watch him totally gut and fillet Officer Darnell. Our only hope now is that Brenton Butler and his can put all this behind them and move forward in life. We wish them all the very best. God bless.

I have just watched this program in the UK i was amazed at Brenton Butler's lawyer'a ability to point out the lack of investigation that went into this case. I was so relived for the parents and his family as there was soo much love within the Butler household. A must-see!

Eureka Hill, Dallas Texas

I watched this film for the first time yesterday and got so angry. I can't believe how LOW some people will stoop to make another person look or feel bad. The system stinks. This young man was walking down the sidewalk, minding his own business and later found himself accused of murder JUST because he was black...How sad. The only eye witness was an eye sore! I know he went through a great deal witnessing the murder of his wife but you cannot accuse the first black man you see. He was so concerned with accusing any black man than the right black man. And because of this he almost sent an innocent young boy to prison and left the real killer out there. Ya'll we need to wake up. This is awful, something needs to be done. Not only is it dangerous driving while black it's dangerous walking while black. Wake up society!

I will be attending law school in the fall. Its because of Attorney's like you that make it possble for people of less economic value to recieve justice. This film allowed all to see that justice isn't blind and justice tends to take a peek every so often; especially when it comes to young black men. Mr McGuiness if I am fortunate enough to make a diiference in this world, I would like to have the drive and determination that God has blessed you with. And although it should not matter, I am a black man. Thank you.

I agree with the earlier comments that you each need to do everything possible to preserve your health. You are our nation's last line of defense against bigotry, false imprisonment and the arrogance of law enforcement. This film must be viewed by every law student and every practicing public defender and private criminal defense lawyer. Anyone who will ever defend an accused individual can learn volumes from the techniques you used to free Mr. Butler. I will own this film and review it regularly.

This is an excellent documentary and a powerful reflection on some facets of our judical system. I think Patrick Mcguiness is the best lawyer that I have ever witness in a courtroom. This is one of the best movies that I have seen in a while

I purchased this DVD based on a recommendation in USA Today. It is all the reviewer said it was and then some! We are glad to see a really important use of the film medium instead of all the tawdry entertainment that fills TV and the theaters! Congratulations to the producers, director and participants. We were wondering, if robbery was the motive, why did the real perp throw the $1200 into the dumpster with the purse?

this was a very sad movie, but very touching at the same time. i think it was very important to put this case in gods hands first like the butlers have done. without faith and without patrick mcguiness, we would have lost a good person to the system.

It is comforting to know that there are public servants such as Mr. McGinness still trying to provide competent and legitimate legal representation to the accused of Duval County. I was shocked by this film and the conduct of the police; Duval County should be proud of Mr. McGinness and ashamed and embarrassed by their police and DA's office. The most profound injustice of the entire incident was that the police were never held accountable for their outrageous and illegal actions.

It was an interesting comment that Patrick McGuinness made about how Winston Churchill said that you can tell the state of the society by the way that police enforcement is handled. I think everyone knows that these things happen, but more needs to be done about it. People saw the injustice, but were not willing to convict any of those officers afterward for the things they did. THAT is the problem. I give a lot of credit to Mr. Brenton Butler for his personal character and faith. He is truly an excellent example of the type of citizen we desire in our society. Also, his family is a wonderful family. Interesting that this can happen to people like them (And is probably an everyday occurrance in this country, don't kid yourselves).

I have a J.D. and enjoy watching court room procedures on T.V. whenever possible. I was shocked at the evidence the prosecution put on. Brenton, may you be able to forgive and go on. Hopefully your settlement will help you get a new start. Please tell your attorney, Pat McGuiness to stop smoking, as our country needs more attorneys like him. Brenton, I am so happy for your outcome. I pray this will not make you bitter. Praying will give you peace. May you enjoy a happy life with your beautiful family. UTCRentals@aol.com

The meaning of mistaken identity is truely revealed in this HBO Documentary. The police mistook themselves as power, only to be identified, but was no match for FAITH!!. To the Butler family keep the faith. To the attorneys thank you. It's been far too long overdue.

This film reminds us that with true courage, solid integrity, and faith in ourselves and in one another, we become the perfect remedy for those people (and circumstances) whose intentions and actions are devoid of even the meaning of these words. Thank you for making this MUST SEE documentary! P.S. - McGuinnes, you are the bomb, and I truly appreciated the cigarette before comment!

Brenton may only have been 15 when he went through this ordeal, but as a 32 year old MBA student, I truly feel humbled by the composure and faith he demonstrated. Truly a great role model for us all. I hope he and his family take the city for everything they are worth..... they deserve it.

This is one of the most important films about racial injustice that I believe exists today. It is a must see. I am afriad that the ones who need to see it the most are busy watching something less real. An hour has yet to pass in the last three days without remebering the tears rolling down innocent faces.

I have seen this movie twice and i can't believe a black cop could be so hostile to a young black boy. I hope every time this film is aired a peice of his heart will break away until nothing is left. I commend Mr Mcguinness and Miss Finnell I am also happy for Brent's family and hope he will make the best of his life and prove the stero type wrong. I hope next time the prosecuter, Ann, will prosecute for justice and not for money.

I just watch the documentary on HBO ,and it is not right how they can take an inocent man and frame him for murder. They went out and picked out the first black man they saw and said he just killed someone.We do not need detective who so who are not honest and make a 15 year old boy sing a statement because they need to pend the murder on someone .Mt heart goes out to the Butler Family I am so glad they foud him not guilty,and that they caught the real killer. And I hop that Brenton is okay from all of this. This was the best documentary I have seen on HBO. Thank you HBO for showing us how bad these detectives' and police are.I cried after they read the verdict. Because I knew tnat Brenton did not do that. May,1 2003. Fort Leonard Wood ,M0

I have seen this docudrama twice. It gets more frightening each time. Shame on arrogant whites who remain in denial over the existence of the real blindness in our justice system. Not only do blacks have to deal with the driving while black syndrome so prevalent in this country, add to the problem walking while black and even living while black.

Now I have an effective tool to use with respect trying to get the point across to many of the young African-Am males I encounter. This movie, unlike any recent documentary, gives Americans and the world a taste of what it's like being young, African-Am and assumed guilty. This movie gives the term WWB (Walking While Black) new meaning.

I viewed this documentary multiple times on HBO and I just wanted to say that it is a very inspirational story for every individual who believes in our society. Patrick McGuiness is a very driven individual who put his life and soul into this case, and for that he is a hero in my eyes.

I was riveted to my chair from start to finish in this real life drama about a 15 year old boy who was being railroaded into spending the rest of his life behind bars. The prosecutor who was more interested in winning than in justice. Fortunately Brenton Butler had a public defender who exposed the corrupt police officers who were willing to lock up an innocent boy for the rest of his life.

I've never took the time to watch a documentaries because I thought they would bore me. Now, I am seeking out this form of film to see what I have been missing. This was nothing short of excellent!

....thing to reality, real reality, that is captured on film yet...

i saw this movie on HBO and was horrified to see that this sort of thing can happen in this country. We have not come that far after all have we? Thanks God for Pat McGuiness. As bad as this was for Brenton and his family, check out what happened and is stil happening in Tulia, Texas.

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