On C List of Movie Reviews

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Changeling (2008)

Rate: 6
Viewed: 10/25

Changel
10/25: Because of the title, Changeling seems to be a remake of the George C. Scott classic picture but is not so.

Angelina Jolie isn't a credible actress and therefore shouldn't have been in the film. I would've gone for Hilary Swank. The other thinks she can survive the role by wearing a ridiculous hat and a heavy red lipstick while reviving some crap from Girl, Interrupted. See the movie poster for what I mean.

I'm surprised that Clint Eastwood chose to focus on cinematography over everything else. Why? He's better at telling a story. Once that's firmly established, the movie will take care of itself. Hence, I got distracted by the perfect, clean image of the 1920's. In fact, it has become a common theme due to the rise of sharp and defined visual technology, but that's not how life looked back then.

Among the most important characters is Sanford Clark. Yet the kid fucked it up. Why? He's a bad actor. Plus, a lot of details are left out including the sexual abuse and the involvement of the killer's mother. What made Helter Skelter so memorable, especially in the book, was the explanation of how the Family came to be, where Charles Manson fit in the grand scheme of things, and the philosophy behind the killings. As Paul Watkins, Jason Ronard perfectly captured the essence, making it the most defining role in the entire saga.

Although the plot is interesting and the cast fits the period, Changeling is overlong and tries too hard in little things. For example, the phrase "serial killer" wasn't coined until the 70's. Why the incessant flashing bulbs for photography? Nobody needs that while the day is so bright; otherwise, the end result will be overexposure. Electroshock therapy began in 1938. A "sandwich in the fridge"? Please...it was called "icebox" back then.

All in all, If Clint Eastwood could make a few changes, Changeling would play better; otherwise, it's a clear case of Oscar bait primarily for Angelina Jolie.