Dark, twisted, down right disturbing look at a real life serial killer

Rating: 9/10 (12 January 2012)

I've seen Monster a couple of times now before reviewing it and I think I can safely say that this is one of the darkest most twisted films I've ever seen. The big reason behind that is because this IS real life. This is a real woman, who not so long ago killed people and was in the media. It is fascinating to watch and truly deeply disturbing. True Crime fans should eat this film up because the performances of the two lead actresses are simply stunning. Both women give award worthy performances, and the direction of the film is so well done. It would be hard to call a movie like this 'entertaining' but fascinating and captivating describes it excellently.
Charlize Theron goes through unheard of lengths to become the twisted and disturbed Aileen. She is literally unrecognizable and considering she is one of the most beautiful women in the world, his transformation is even more stunning. But that isn't just what makes her performance outstanding...she gives such an incredible performance you will be blown away but what she does. Christina Ricci holds her own against Theron in level of performance because she also is excellent as the often victimized, quiet, and easily abused Selby. Ricci and Theron's chemistry opposite each other is absolutely perfect and the two of them light up the screen.
Director and writer Patty Jenkins must have spent so much time studying the facts behind this case because it feels and looks real and you will believe that you are right on the forefront of this killer's mind. The ingenious part of Monster is that this isn't about the case, or her trial or even the crimes themselves. This is a film about the mind of a serial killer. What made her who she was and her very fast downward spiral into insanity. Please see this movie because there is few like it and few films will get under your skin and really disturb you and fascinate you all at the same time. 9/10