Charlie Says

Charlie Says is a 2018 psychological drama film that explores the Manson family murders from the perspective of three of his followers, who were imprisoned for their involvement in the crimes. The movie is directed by Mary Harron and written by Guinevere Turner, based on the book "The Family" by Ed Sanders. It stars Hannah Murray as Leslie Van Houten, Matt Smith as Charles Manson, and Sosie Bacon as Patricia Krenwinkel.

The movie follows the story of Leslie Van Houten, Patricia Krenwinkel, and Susan Atkins, who were part of the Charles Manson cult. In 1969, these three women were involved in the brutal murder of actress Sharon Tate and six other people. The movie focuses on their time in prison, where they are visited by Karlene Faith, a graduate student who is studying women's prisons. Faith begins teaching them about feminism and encourages them to question Manson's teachings, which they had blindly followed. Over the course of the film, the three women come to terms with their past and seek redemption for their crimes.

Hannah Murray's portrayal of Leslie Van Houten is hauntingly believable. She perfectly captures Van Houten's youthful innocence and naivety, while also portraying her as a vulnerable and troubled young woman who was easily manipulated by Manson. Matt Smith's Charles Manson is equally captivating, as he convincingly portrays the charismatic and manipulative cult leader. Sosie Bacon's portrayal of Patricia Krenwinkel is also notable, as she effectively captures the character's transformation from obedient follower to self-aware individual.

The film is expertly directed by Mary Harron, whose previous credits include American Psycho and I Shot Andy Warhol. The movie's pacing is intentionally slow, which allows for a deeper exploration of the psychological trauma that the characters have experienced. The film also stands out for its use of flashbacks, which offer insight into the background and motivations of the three women.

Overall, Charlie Says is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that explores the power of cults and the potential for redemption. The film's strong performances, skillful direction, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-see for anyone interested in true crime stories or psychological dramas.