Watch The Devil You Know
- TV-MA
- 2019
- 4 Seasons
-
7.0 (840)
The Devil You Know is a true-crime series that aired on Viceland in 2019. The show explores the horrific crimes committed by a man named Pazuzu Algarad in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Algarad was a self-proclaimed Satanist and was known for his bizarre appearance and behavior, including his tattoos of devil horns and pentagrams and his habit of walking around shirtless in public. The series begins by introducing the viewer to Algarad and his girlfriend, Amber Burch. They lived in a squalid home that was filled with garbage and animal feces, and they were known for throwing wild parties that often ended in violence. Algarad had an extensive criminal history that included charges of assault and statutory rape, but he seemed to be able to avoid serious consequences for his actions. As the episodes progress, the viewer learns more about the people in Algarad's orbit, including his mother and stepfather, his ex-girlfriend, and his various friends and hangers-on. Many of these people were addicted to drugs or living in poverty, which made them vulnerable to Algarad's manipulations. He was able to convince them that he was a powerful figure who could help them achieve their goals, even as he was subjecting them to horrific abuse. One of the key themes of the show is the way in which the community failed to intervene in Algarad's crimes. Although many people were aware of his erratic behavior and violent tendencies, they either ignored it or swept it under the rug. In part, this was due to Algarad's reputation as a dangerous figure who shouldn't be crossed. But it was also the result of a lack of resources and support for people who were struggling with addiction and mental illness. The Devil You Know features interviews with many of the people who knew Algarad, as well as with law enforcement officials and journalists who covered the case. The series also makes use of archival footage and photographs to paint a vivid picture of Algarad's world. The result is a chilling and often disturbing look at the darkest corners of human behavior. One of the standout elements of the show is the way in which it allows the viewer to get to know Algarad as a person, rather than simply demonizing him. While there's no excusing the terrible crimes he committed, the series shows how he became the person he was and how he was able to exert such a powerful hold over those around him. In doing so, it provides important insights into the psychology of people who commit violent acts. Overall, The Devil You Know is a gripping and unsettling series that's not for the faint of heart. It's a powerful reminder of how easy it can be for people to slip through the cracks and become marginalized and disconnected from society. At the same time, it's a testament to the resilience of those who survived Algarad's reign of terror and who have worked to rebuild their lives in the aftermath.