Synopsis
Directed by Nick Broomfield and Joan Churchill, this is the follow up to Broomfield’sAileen Wuornos: The Selling of a Serial Killer. This summarizes some of what was dugup in that film, particularly the sleazy attempts by all and sundry to capitalize on theirconnections to Wuornos and her case, and the corruption of justice that ensued. The newnarrative picks up with Wuornos’ final appeal against the death penalty (which fails), and theninterviews her (and the people…who knew her) as the clock ticks down. Wuornos becomesincreasingly paranoid and irrational as her death draws near. A disturbing testament, and awithering indictment of society.
Audio
Gauging audio quality on a collection of interviews is a little beside the point. Nonetheless,the 2.0 track is very satisfying, with a surprising degree of surround effects (music, slammingprison doors, etc.). The most important aspect — the dialogue between Broomfield and Wuornos– is perfectly clear.
Video
The case claims a simultaneous 1.85:1 and fullscreen aspect. In point of fact, the format isfullscreen. Even more than with the sound, assigning a rating here is rather pointless. The picturequality varies enormously, depending on the source material. The footage that is original to thedocumentary is crisp and clear enough, but its sharpness and other niceties are limited by the conditions of filming — this is shot in a prison, after all.
Special Features
Nothing here except trailers for Monster, Secret Window, Trappedand In the Cut. These load prior to the (basic) menu.
Closing Thoughts
Essential, if depressing, viewing for anyone even passingly interested in the case. It also,incidentally, demonstrates further how absolutely Charlize Theron embodied Wuornos.
Special Features List
- Trailers
