" One Life which started at the bottom and worked it's way down "

Rating: 8/10 (5 November 2009)

Nature is ambivalent when dispensing life. Each beginning is allowed to experience its birth and thereafter what follows is not it's concern. Life among humans is so much the same. Everyone is given life. Some good, some bad and many others are a miserable collection of tragedies. This dramatic film is called " Monster " which explains little of the life of Aileen Wuornos, America's first recorded female serial killer. Charlize Theron convincingly plays Aileen, a young woman who endures a tragic beginning which eventually leads to a life of prostitution. According to her story, she becomes a victim of a sadistic customer or 'John' who brutalizes her, prompting her defense which results in murder. Finding a soul-mate in a girl-friend named Selby (Christina Ricci) the two then become a pair of fugitives, leaving a trail of murder victims across state lines. Bruce Dern is interesting as 'Thomas', a former Viet-Nam Vet and friend who adds a wonderful advisory element to an otherwise dark and somber film. Scott Wilson is another surprise addition who plays Horton, her last victim. One should recall it was Wilson who played Richard Hickock in the movie 'In cold blood' with Robert Blake. The black film dwells mostly on Aileen's lifetime complaint that she was never given a chance at the good life. Written and directed by Patty Jenkins, the film and its star receives much acclaim and due credit. A good offering to anyone who wants to skim the surface of a violent life which ended, much like it began. ****