An American Crime Synopsis & Summary
Synopsis
The true story of a young girl held captive by her insane caretaker comes to life in this disturbing film from Ella Enchanted director Tommy O'Haver. Hard Candy's Ellen Page stars as Sylvia Likens a teenager who, along with her sister, is left to live temporarily with seemigly-mild-mannered housewife Gertrude Baniszewski, played by Catherine Keener. Unfortunately for Sylvia, Gertrude soon snaps and holds her hostage in harsh conditions until the former's eventual death. Bradley Whitford costars as the prosecutor tasked with trying the case against Baniszewski. - Matthew Tobey, All Movie Guide
Movie Info
Starring:
DVD Release Date:
08/19/2008
Rating:
R
MPAA Reasons:
for strong and disturbing depiction of child abuse and torture.
Run Time:
98 min.
Distributor(s):
First Look
Director(s):
Genre(s):
Themes:
Murder Investigations, Trapped or Confined
Tone:
Atmospheric, Disturbing, Grim
Keywords:
captive, caretaker [custodian], murder-trial, prosecutor
Language:
English
Status:
DVD