‘Untold: The Murder of Air McNair’ Netflix Review - Delving into the Unseen

Few people remember the shocking and tragic case of NFL quarterback Steve McNair, a story that still haunts those who followed it closely. This documentary revisits that fateful night, piecing together the events leading to the deaths of McNair and his 20-year-old girlfriend, Sahel Kazemi. It opens with a chilling 911 call from Robert Gaddy, a close friend of McNair, reporting the discovery of two lifeless bodies—36-year-old Steve McNair and Sahel Kazemi.

As the documentary unfolds, it delves deeper into the complex layers of the case, shedding light on both the known facts and lingering questions. The investigation quickly centered on the mystery of who was responsible for the killings. After a thorough examination of the evidence, the police concluded that Kazemi had shot McNair before turning the gun on herself.

Kazemi, burdened by significant financial stress, had reportedly sought help from McNair, who had been supporting her. But the story goes beyond financial strain—Kazemi allegedly began to suspect that McNair, despite his relationship with her, was involved with other women. Her suspicions and mounting pressure seemed to drive her to the breaking point.

McNair, a married man with four children, had been living a double life, one that Kazemi believed was unraveling. On the night of their deaths, after a series of troubling text messages from Kazemi, McNair rushed to see her. Just moments later, she shot him multiple times before taking her own life.

The documentary doesn't just recount the grim details but also explores the broader implications—of fame, secrecy, and the emotional toll of living lives that are never as they seem. It asks difficult questions: Could these deaths have been prevented? What were the true motivations behind Kazemi’s fatal actions? Through interviews, expert opinions, and archival footage, the documentary presents a compelling narrative, urging viewers to reflect on the tragic choices that forever changed the lives of those involved.

In the final chapters, the documentary shifts to a solemn and heart-wrenching sequence featuring scenes from Steve McNair's funeral. The atmosphere is profound sorrow, as friends, family, and teammates struggle to come to terms with the sudden loss of a man who had been a beloved star in the NFL and a larger-than-life figure to those who knew him. The film highlights the emotional weight carried by McNair's former teammates as they honor his legacy, bearing his coffin in a moving display of brotherhood and respect.

Through these emotional clippings, viewers witness the tearful farewells and powerful tributes to McNair, who was not only a football icon but also a husband, father, and friend. The documentary closes on a sad note, marking the tragic end of one of the NFL's brightest talents—a life cut short not by the toll of the game, but by a deeply personal tragedy that left an indelible scar on the sports world. It serves as a poignant reminder of how fleeting fame can be, and how, behind the headlines, there are always human stories filled with pain, love, and loss.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times