Fact-based drama features unforgettable performances from Theron and Ricci.

Rating: Null/10 (11 March 2004)

Patty Jenkins' "Monster" is the real life story of recently executed prostitute and serial killer Aileen Wuornos, who murdered a series of men between 1989 and 1990. The film focuses on that time period and Wuornos' budding lesbian relationship with Selby Wall, a quiet, shy young girl looking for companionship. The film dosen't attempt to glamorize Wuornos' life, but it does paint a shocking portrait of why she killed her "johns", problems dating back to her childhood. Until now, Charlize Theron has just been seen in decorative supporting parts ("That Thing You Do!", "The Cider House Rules" and "The Italian Job"), but this time, she IS the lead character, and she IS Aileen Wuornos. Her Oscar-winning portrayal of the emotionally broken and suffering Wuornos is devastatingly real and brilliant. Kudos to Christina Ricci, as well, for her quiet, fierce, award-caliber role as Selby. Their scenes together are intensely effective, but ther are also scenes with Wuornos and her "johns" that are quite heartbreaking as well: the vignette when she is with an equally broken, stammering man named Gene (Pruitt Taylor Vince), and the shockingly realistic scene with Horton (Scott Wilson), a middle-aged passerby who unsuspectingly gives the young woman a ride, little expecting the danger in store. From beginning to end, "Monster" is a powerful tour-de-force and a cinematic achievement. ***1/2