Sylvia and Jennie Fae Likens, the two daughters of traveling carnival workers are left for an extended stay at the Indianapolis (3850 E. New York St. is hardly suburban, nor was it in 1965, by any stretch of the imagination.) home of single mother Gertrude Baniszewski and her six children. Times are tough, and Gertrude's financial needs cause her to make this arrangement before realizing how the burden will push her unstable nature to a breaking point. What transpires in the next three months is both riveting and horrific, leaving one child dead and the rest scarred for life. "An American Crime" is not for everyone. "An American Crime" is a good movie, it builds towers of tension, emotion and aggression.
This was a great movie. It is a true story that will keep you watching every step of the way. Ellen Page does an amazing performance as the poor tormented girl in the movie! It makes you wonder how people could be so mean, especially towards a child, it`s really sad because things like this in the movie do happen every day. Child abuse is a huge issue these days and it is just so unfortunate that there were no child abuse laws back in the 1960`s when this crime took place. This movie is worth watching. It wake`s you up to what really goes on in some foster homes even today. It`s one of those movie`s that stick in your head for a few weeks after you watch it. Give it a try, you won`t be disapointed.
when my brother told me to watch it, it sounded like a dumb movie, i never even heard of it, i was thinking i was gonna see a movie about a little girl killing, well i was wrong, this movie was very good, i won't ruin anything, but when it was over i thought it was a good and a bad movie 'cause it was a great movie and the bad part of it was, the movie was so sad, yet still a good movie, my mom cried and i just kept shaking my head during and after the movie, then to top it off, it was based on a true story, i hate myself for liking this movie, but i did buy it, and let some of my family watch it and not one person has said it wasn't good, SO RENT IT OR BUY IT, BUT DO WATCH THIS MOVIE.
This movie is a HUGE eye-opener for any parent or anyone who has children & young adults in their lives. The movie was very well written. It made me cringe multiple times & cry. It just reminds you that not everyone is trustworthy...some people are too easily trusting in the kindness of other people & obviously this wasn't the case. It makes you pay attention to WHO you have in your life...as well as who you surround your children with. It's very devastating...
The saddest movie in the world, I am black and my people were slaves and that is the crulest thing another human being and do to anthor. But this story is right up there with slavery! How could kids be so cruel to one another, why do parents leave their kids with other people even after the girl dies, the parents still leave her sister with the attorney on the case. I know sometimes God whiches he didn't even create us. When will we chose love over hate?
I live in Indianapolis, IN where the story took place. The story of Sylvia Likens is very tragic and unfortunately it is true. This story has touched many lives in Indianapolis and the move, An American Crime, gives great insight and knowledge about the Indiana torture crime. The movie is not necessarily 100% factual as some parts are imagined but it accurately depicts the struggle and tortue that Sylvia underwent. I highly encourage all to view this movie.
I bought this for my Mom..she knew Sylvia..she said it was a GREAT movie but Very very sad for her.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
I rented this movie because it looked 'good' at the movie store- never having read the book, or heard the real-life story. All I can say is 'wow'and 'unbelievable.' The story is powerful and the acting is just great. It really holds your attention and stirs up the emotions within you. It is the best movie I've seen in a long time. I will definitely be buying it!
This is a amazing movie
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Don't know how I missed seeing this when it was released. A crazy, true story. Hard to believe at times.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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