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New indy film argues Alabama woman was wrongly convicted of murder

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 07/22/2022


(ELIZABETH, NJ) -- An independent African-American filmmaker with a relentless pursuit of the truth and justice has produced a stunning documentary that makes a powerful case: arguing that an Alabama white woman has been unjustly imprisoned for 30 years.

In Finding Betty, a four-year project of filmmaker Jean Adam, Jr. (releasing his 80-minute documentary today) makes an overwhelming argument that Betty Wilson was wrongly convicted of murder conspiracy involving the death of her husband (Dr. Jack Wilson) in the early 90s in Huntsville, Alabama. The documentary provides incredibly meticulous research and a step-by-step examination of the many holes in the prosecution's case. It is a powerful call to action for Wilson to be set free. 

In this murder-for-hire case, the principal witness in the case (James White) claimed Betty Wilson hired him to kill Dr. Wilson. However, White actually recanted his testimony years later. Remarkably, Betty Wilson's twin sister (Peggy Lowe), was also charged with murder conspiracy in the case, and was acquitted in a separate trial. Substantial evidence presented in Peggy's case, which showcased a light on Betty's argued innocence and undoubtedly helped lead to Peggy's acquittal, was not presented in her twin's trial.

"I have made this film my life's mission because it calls into question the integrity of the justice system itself," said Adam. "I won't give up until justice is done. We must show compassion for those suffering from injustice and create more awareness of injustice to prevent such unfairness from ever happening again." Wilson, who speaks directly about the case in the film in candid and eye-opening interviews, calls Adam "her angel."

Adam contends the Alabama jury nearly 30 years ago was unduly influenced by the revelation Betty Wilson, a white woman, had a sexual affair with a black man. Adams explores the racial overtones in the trial.




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"This was a passion project and I can see it reflected in the outcome," said actor/film editor Jolon Franklin. 

The documentary presents graphic photos of the crime scene and makes use of re-creations to enhance the understanding of the trial. Adam hopes the movie will be a driving force for Wilson's acquittal.

Mo Brooks, an Alabama congressman since 2011, was one of the case's prosecutors.

You can rent Finding Betty for $3.99 or buy it for $9.99 on these streaming platforms: YouTube TV, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video. Just search Finding Betty. Anyone with access to the Google Play Store or Apple's iTune Store can purchase the product from their tablet, computer or phone.

 Like Free Betty Wilson Project on Facebook and become part of the conversation.




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EVENT PREVIEWS

(ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ) -- Daruma, executive produced by Oscar-winner Peter Farrelly, is returning to theaters this July for a limited theatrical run in honor of Disability Pride Month. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation to support its mission of funding innovative research, advancing care, and empowering individuals and families impacted by paralysis. Locally, Daruma will screen at Smodcastle Cinemas in Atlantic Highlands on Friday, July 17, 2026 at 7:30pm.
"An Evening With Dan and Laura" - A Behind the Scenes Look at Vivid Stage

"An Evening With Dan and Laura" - A Behind the Scenes Look at Vivid Stage's First Feature Film

(SUMMIT, NJ) -- Vivid Stage, in residence at the Oakes Center, will host "An Evening with Dan and Laura" on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 8:00pm. The evening will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Vivid's feature film: A Relative Comedy. Director Laura Ekstrand and Composer Dan Crisci will talk about what went into making the company's first feature.
The Trenton Film Society presents Kid Flicks: Celebrating Black Stories

The Trenton Film Society presents Kid Flicks: Celebrating Black Stories

(TRENTON, NJ) -- On Saturday, July 18, 2026, the Trenton Film Society will present a special program for children 8+, in partnership with the renowned New York International Children's Film Festival. Celebrating Black Stories spotlights Black narratives that transcend national boundaries, culture, and language. With roots in history and tradition, these films share the joy, determination, resilience, and complexity of being young and Black while underscoring the vibrancy of Black storytelling.
45th Bi-Annual New Jersey Film Festival will Take Place September 4th through October 4th

45th Bi-Annual New Jersey Film Festival will Take Place September 4th through October 4th

(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- The 45th Bi-Annual New Jersey Film Festival will be taking place between September 4 - October 4, 2026. As they have been doing the last few years, the festival will be presented as a hybrid with select in-person screenings at Rutgers University and most of the films available virtually via Video on Demand for 24 hours on their show date. The festival also be offering an Audio-Visual Concert featuring the bands Lawns and Hanging Coats as well as two FREE Filmmaking Workshops.
 

FEATURED EVENTS


An Evening with Dan and Laura

Saturday, July 18, 2026 @ 8:00pm
Oakes Center
120 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ


Free Summer Movie! Zootopia 2

Tuesday, July 21, 2026 @ 10:30am
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ


Free Summer Movie! Zootopia 2

Tuesday, July 21, 2026 @ 6:30pm
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ


Free Summer Movie! How to Train Your Dragon

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 @ 10:30am
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ


Free Summer Movie! How to Train Your Dragon

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 @ 6:30pm
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ



 

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