A sympathetic view of a "monster"

Rating: 10/10 (18 January 2004)

The buzz surrounding this film is that of Charlize Theron's physical transformation. However, perhaps people should be talking about her psychological transformation. Because even though she physically pulls off this performance, she nails it in the mentality aspect as well. The story chronicles the life of America's first celebrated serial killer. The focus tends to surround the events and tragedies that helped to transform her into one, instead of focusing on her actual crimes. I suppose law and order types will be upset about that, claiming it is a "liberal" movie that attempts to rationalize murder. It is true that the director does play a little fast and loose with the actual killer in question. However, I think the movie is justified. It is easy to say there are bad people out there that should be executed. But many of these people were not born that way. Tragedies beyond their control happen and their lives take on a very different and ugly path. In summation, the performances were great (Theron will win best actress), the music was terrific, the direction tight and the story entertaining. I think this was a very special film.