An American Crime…..a good old uplifting child-abuse film.
Who’s up for a pleasant evening at the movies?
An American Crime aint exactly popcorn fare. It is disturbing and gut wrenching. Both Catherine Keener and Ellen Page give great performances in what must have been truly difficult roles. It is the true story of Sylvia Likens, a 16 year old girl who was tortured by a woman left to take care of her and her younger sister. The crime was senseless and brutal…..and in a way, so is the movie. That is not to say it is a bad film…far from it. It just seems to tell the story without offering much else. For such a tough watch, you really feel like you deserve something more.
If nothing else, the film should shed light on a shocking crime that should never be forgotten.
August 17, 2008 at 12:31 am
Rarely, does one come across a situation that leaves a permanent impact on your life. An impact that jolts you from a dreary, mundane & ultra secure life and says “Hey, Do these things happen?”.
I saw the movie, never been a true fan of the cinema. What do they call it? yes Artistic License. Director’s Liberty, Authors Latitude…. et al… Did some research on the web and the horror just amplifies itself multifolds!!
These things did happen. What level has man fallen to? Was Gertrude sane? even insane, can anyone swoop to such low levels that one unleashes such unspeakable acts of voilence on an innocent life that still is yet to bloom? Cutting it short is a group of acconplices.. All minors!! Robotically and sadistically burning, branding, kicking, hitting, punching!!!
These things did happen… Such madness. Why? Where can one find an answer? Not in psychological analysis for sure. Not in rational explinations either…
In GOD? I shall try….
October 14, 2008 at 2:28 pm
I hear ya Vikram. This is some powerful stuff. Thanks for the insightful comment.
October 18, 2008 at 6:24 am
I have not yet to see this movie, but i was told about it and went to the website for info. I was horrified of what i was reading, there was bumps on my arms. I can not believe this actually happen to a young child that had so much to live for. People that do these things to others don’t have a heart. Reading these articles gave me the chills, i can not imagine how i would re-act when i actually see these movie. I have 3 child of my own and i hold them so close to myself and pray each for there safety. The question is, what goes threw people mind when they decide to hurt someone so young? what do they get from that? how would have they felt if it was them in her position?
November 11, 2008 at 3:31 pm
this is my video of the inside of the house on 10/22/08.
December 4, 2008 at 10:36 pm
Cool shit Jeremy! Creepy.
There’s another film based on this event. It’s called “The Girl Next Door” (not to be confused with the teen comedy flick of that same name)
Anyone seen it? It looks a bit more graphic.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0830558/
February 4, 2009 at 11:48 pm
well im writinq a report on sylvia so i need help .