Charlize Theron is phenomenal

Rating: Null/10 (2 August 2004)

I recently watched Monster with high expectations because I already knew that Theron won an oscar for best actress. Theron did not disappoint. Her performance is truly spectacular as it doesn't appear that she is acting -- she becomes Aileen in every sense.
The movie moves at a good pace, but I would change the beginning and spend a little more time showing Aileen's upbringing and the fact that her father was a child molester. It was also rumored that Aileen had an incestuous relationship with her brother and that he was possibly the father of the baby she had when she was just 14. And Aileen was not just a prostitute. In her real life, she was guilty of numerous solitary crimes including theft and aggravated assault. I believe that these skipped events set an early stage for Aileen's eventual demise. Aileen started out troubled and lacking self control and self worth. It was only a matter of time before she exploded.
Although some viewers may criticize the apparently light relationship between Aileen and Selby, I think it was realistic. Many people say "I love you" simply because they want real love so badly.

Overall, this is an excellent film with stellar performances.