Watch Changeling

In the year 1928, a mother's worst nightmare becomes a reality when her son goes missing. Changeling is a 2008 mystery thriller that stars Angelina Jolie, Colm Feore, and Amy Ryan, amongst others. Based on a true story, Changeling offers what could be considered one of the most compelling mysteries in film history. Angelina Jolie plays the character of Christine Collins, a single mother who resides in Los Angeles. Christine cannot come to terms with the fact that her son Walter has vanished into thin air. She becomes consumed by the tragedy and does all in her power to find Walter. It is the setting of Los Angeles in 1928 that makes the film all the more ominous, with the Gothic backdrop setting the tone for impending doom. As the story unfolds, the police inform Christine that they have managed to locate the young boy. However, upon being reunited with him, Christine is convinced that the child is not her son. Despite Christine's protestations, the LAPD refuses to listen, and she becomes a pariah in the eyes of the locals. As the plot continues, it is revealed that the LAPD may be covering up something much more nefarious than initially expected. The plot takes an even darker turn when we meet the character of Gustav Briegleb, who is a radio preacher and witness to some of the brutalities of the Los Angeles police department during this era. Changeling is a themed and engrossing mystery film whose plot twists and turns like a labyrinth. It is not short on suspense as viewers follow along with Christine's erratic behavior, desperate attempts to solve her family's disappearance, and her admirable resistance against the LAPD's threats and attempts at intimidation. The film's story unfolds at a moderate pace, which enables viewers to follow the plot with ease. It also ensures that the many emotional moments of the story are not overplayed, thereby allowing for the depth of the heart-rending drama to hit home. Angelina Jolie displays a range of emotions throughout the film. As Christine Collins, she is believable in the role of the distressed mother determined to find her son. Jolie remains one of the most bankable actresses in Hollywood, and her performance in Changeling is an excellent example of why she continues to remain a force to be reckoned with. The supporting cast on this film also does not disappoint. Colm Feore takes on the role of a police captain, who is creepy yet believable in the part. His performance offers the perfect contrast of a villain who is not over-the-top but is just menacing enough to leave the viewer feeling uncomfortable. John Malkovich also stars in the film as a lawyer hired by Christine to help her find her son. Amy Ryan stars in the film as the character of Carol Dexter. She offers just enough levity in the role to balance the otherwise tense situation in the film. However, this lightness of tone is short-lived, and the film soon descends into the dark waters that make it such a compelling tale. The film's setting in Los Angeles allows the director, Clint Eastwood, to use the city's ominous architecture to great effect. The buildings seem less like real places and more like something from a horror story, creating an eerie sense of foreboding that adds to the uncertainty and suspense of the plot. The historical accuracy of the screenplay adds an extra level of intrigue to the film. The viewers get a glimpse into a time when the police were omnipotent and people rarely questioned their authority. The plot shows how the LAPD systematically covered up a gruesome crime that involved kidnapped families, runaway juveniles, and fake policemen. Overall, Changeling is an excellent thriller with an engrossing plot and excellent performances from its lead actors. The plot unfolds at a moderate pace, allowing the viewer to become fully immersed in this suspenseful drama. It is a film that pulls the viewer in from the start and keeps them hooked until the very end. If you are in the mood for a thrilling tale that is also historically accurate and emotionally charged, then Changeling is the perfect choice for you.