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Synopsis
Charlize Theron delivers a knockout cast-against-type performance in this gritty drama based on the true story of Aileen Wuornos a down and out prostitute who was sentenced to death after killing six men between 1989 and 1990. Christina Ricci co-stars as Selby Wall a lesbian runaway who forms a romantic bond with Wuornos. Inspired by her love (even though she is not gay strictly speaking) Wuornos tries to get a real job but after meeting with a string of humiliating failures she returns to work as a hitchhiking hooker killing her first victim in self-defence after he rapes and beats her. Eventually robbing and murdering her clients becomes almost second nature and by the end Wuornos even slays a man who was totally innocent (Scott Wilson). Therons portrayal of this dangerous yet sympathetic character ranks with some of the greatest performances in cinema. Under heavy makeup extra weight and a snarling countenance she proves herself a fearless formidable talent completely unrecognisable from the glamorous beauty of such films as THE ITALIAN JOB (2003) and THE DEVILS ADVOCATE (1997). First-time director Jenkins proves herself with this fluid and engrossing work capturing a lot of sordid detail that other movies exploring this milieu might miss she also wrote the script based on actual conversations and prison letters from Wuornos. The moody paranoia-enhancing soundtrack is by electronica maestro BT.
Monster Review
Charlize Theron won the Best Actress Oscar this year for her performance in "Monster," a harrowing drama based on the life of America's first convicted female serial killer. Aileen Wuornos was a prostitute who apparently began her killing spree with the murder of a 'customer' who had already assaulted her, raped her, and was set to kill her. According to this dramatic recreation of the events of her life, it was Wuornos' new-found love for a naïve young woman (a seriously underused Christina Ricci) that spurred her on, determined as she was to come up with the cash for a new life with her in the only way she knew how.
This is unquestionably Theron's movie and she more than deserves the praise and plaudits that have come her way. Barely recognisable behind her false teeth, make-up and contact lenses, it's her skills as an actress, rather than just her appearance, however, that impress: her Wuornos is a truly believable, if thoroughly unlikeable character. But unfortunately the film itself does not live up to the standard set by Theron. First time feature writer/director Patty Jenkins certainly delivers some truly memorable and shocking moments, but while her portrayal of the killer as a victim driven to desperate circumstances carries some resonance, it is surely more than a little questionable. This, coupled with the fact that most cinemagoers will be well aware of how the story concludes, means that "Monster" is a film to be admired rather than enjoyed.
Technical Information
Region 2
Sound: Dolby Digital
Production Year: 2003
Main Language: English
Classification: Drama
Certificate: 18 Suitable for 18 years and over. Not for sale to persons under age 18, by placing an order for this product you are declaring that you are 18 years or over.
Director Name: Patty Jenkins
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