‘Beauty and the Bester’ (2025) Netflix Series Review - Shocking Dive into Thabo Bester’s Case

If you know about Thabo Bester, then this documentary will only add to your intrigue. Beauty and the Bester explores his escape, which shook the world. This was by far one of the most sensational and controversial cases in South Africa. For those of you who don’t know, Thabo Bester is a South African national who is a convicted rapist and murderer. What’s interesting is how he escaped Mangaung Correctional Centre in South Africa. He faked his own death by claiming that he died in a cell fire that took place in his prison in May 2022. The reason why everyone was deceived was that a body was found in his cell. But due to the fire, it was burnt beyond recognition. That’s when no one suspected until authorities realized that he had faked his death. This led to his re-arrest and rest, as we say, is all history. When you look closely at it, it’s more than just a death that has been faked; it's more about planning, plotting, and corruption. This is exactly what we are shown in the docuseries. Spanning over three episodes with real footage, the plot has been developed in an exciting yet simple manner. Over time, you are disgusted at Thabo Bester for very obvious reasons. What we are also shown is his relationship with Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, an angle that adds further depth to the whole plot.

Now, coming to the tone of the show, it has been cleverly used in a way that it keeps on giving us shockers. From the first time we get to see his death to the time when we realize that there was no death and it was all a case of sham, things go beyond your imagination. The way it builds on suspense is mind-blowing. And even though some of us may know the plot beforehand, there is no way you will feel that the documentary is boring. You will still be as interested as you were before. At one point, I felt as if the makers wanted us to think over, feel angered, and also know the real aspects of the truth. It doesn’t portray a sugar-coated story; rather, as mentioned before, it shows us the mirror.  We are shown the loopholes that form an integral part of his story.

Yes, sometimes the dramatization is a bit too much, which can cause some confusion. But I feel that is required, given how sensational this entire plot is. So crime plot lovers, this docuseries is a must-watch for you. This sensational international case will get you thinking while giving you a taste of the truth. It doesn’t shy away from telling us the truth, which is needed the most. If you are someone who has no or little idea about Thabo Bester, get ready to unveil the truth that will blow your mind. This plot will and his escape will make you forget everything.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times