Watch Monster

In the year 2003, director Patty Jenkins brought Charlize Theron's award-winning performance to life in "Monster." This crime drama was inspired by the real-life events surrounding serial killer Aileen Wuornos, who was executed in 2002. The movie follows Aileen, played by Theron, as she navigates her life as a prostitute in Daytona Beach, Florida. The film opens with Aileen's arrest for the murder of several Johns, and proceeds to tell her backstory through a series of flashbacks. Aileen grew up in poverty, experienced intense abuse as a child, and was forced out of her home as a teenager when she became pregnant. She turns to prostitution to make ends meet and ends up falling in love with a young woman named Selby (Christina Ricci). Theron's transformative physical appearance, including prosthetic makeup and weight gain, helps capture the emotional toll that Aileen's troubled past has taken on her. She portrays Aileen as a sympathetic character, one who is struggling with mental illness and violent impulses as a result of her traumatic upbringing. Ricci's portrayal of Selby adds depth to the story, as her youthful innocence and naivety serve as a stark contrast to Aileen's jaded and damaged personality. Despite the tender moments between Aileen and Selby, the film does not shy away from the brutality of Aileen's crimes. The murders are shown in graphic detail, making for a difficult but impactful viewing experience. However, the film still manages to provide some levity through its brief appearances by Bruce Dern as a retired police officer and Aileen's only sympathetic authority figure. In addition to its gripping story and impressive performances, "Monster" is notable for its direction by Jenkins. She brings a unique perspective to the story, drawing upon her background in documentary filmmaking to create a visceral and honest depiction of Aileen's crimes. Her approach humanizes Aileen while still holding her accountable for her actions. "Monster" was both a commercial success and critically acclaimed upon its release, earning Theron numerous awards for her performance, including an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film's impact can still be seen today, as it has influenced the portrayal of complex female characters in crime dramas. Overall, "Monster" is a haunting and thought-provoking film that explores the psychology of a serial killer while also shedding light on issues such as poverty, abuse, and mental illness. The performances of Theron and Ricci are stunning, and Jenkins' direction creates an unforgettable cinematic experience.