Plot Synopsis

ELIZE MATSUNAGA: ONCE UPON A CRIME is a four-part crime documentary that explores the crime that shocked Brazil -- when a nurse, Elize Matsunaga, shot and dismembered her rich husband, Marcos. Featuring her first interview, this docuseries dives deep into the case. On a temporary release from prison, Elize details her troubled relationship with Marcos as people close to the case describe the aftermath of the crime. She recalls how the prosecution used her past against her, with her motive and confession facing intense scrutiny. Then, Elize recounts what she was thinking when she decided to dismember Marcos' body, and her attorney explains his trial strategy to sway public opinion. Finally, as she opens up about her difficult childhood, Elize looks back at the last day of her trial, when the judge handed down a surprising sentence. The entire four-episode series dropped on Thursday, July 8, 2021 on Netflix.