Crazy, Not Insane

Crazy, Not Insane is a 2020 documentary film directed by Alex Gibney. The film features an analysis of serial killers and their drives based on interviews with Dr. Dorothy Otnow Lewis, a psychiatrist specializing in criminal psychology.

Richard Burr, Laura Dern, and Park Dietz all feature in the film as experts in the field of criminal psychology, sharing their views on Dr. Lewis's work and the nature of criminal behavior. The film explores the theory that some criminals are not necessarily "insane," but rather guided by certain biological, psychological, and sociological factors.

The film follows Dr. Lewis as she recounts some of the most notorious cases in her career, such as the story of Arthur Shawcross, who murdered eleven women and dumped their bodies in a river. Dr. Lewis examines Shawcross's childhood, upbringing, and mental health, unveiling not only his destructive tendencies but also the social and cultural context in which he grew up.

One of the most thought-provoking elements of the documentary is Dr. Lewis's hypothesis that some offenders may have an extra Y chromosome, which can lead to violent behavior. She supports her theory with the cases of Richard Speck, a mass murderer who killed eight student nurses, and Bobby Joe Long, a rapist and murderer who terrorized women in Florida.

The film explores Dr. Lewis's unconventional methods and therapies, with Richard Burr and Laura Dern praising her groundbreaking work in humanizing serial killers and showing them as more than just monsters. Dr. Lewis is shown visiting prisons and interacting with convicted killers, trying to understand the inner workings of their minds and finding clues to prevent future atrocities.

The documentary also features Dr. Park Dietz, a forensic psychiatrist who offers a different perspective on the psychology of criminal behavior. Dietz is known for his involvement in high-profile cases such as the Unabomber and Jeffrey Dahmer. In Crazy, Not Insane, he discusses the aftermath of the Columbine shooting and the implications of media coverage of mass shootings.

Overall, Crazy, Not Insane is a fascinating exploration of criminal psychology and the socio-biological factors behind violent crimes. The film is not for the faint-hearted and contains graphic descriptions of murders and sexual assault, but it nevertheless provides a valuable insight into the minds of some of the most notorious killers in American history.

The documentary is enhanced by its use of archival footage and photographs, as well as interviews with victims' families, police officers, and journalists who covered the cases. The film raises interesting questions about the nature of evil and the possibility of rehabilitation for criminals who commit heinous acts.

In conclusion, Crazy, Not Insane is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that forces viewers to reevaluate their preconceived notions about criminal behavior. With powerful testimonials from experts in the field and haunting footage of some of the most infamous killers of the past century, this film is not to be missed by anyone fascinated by true crime and forensic psychology.