The Last of the Manson Girls

The Last of the Manson Girls is an engaging and thought-provoking film, released in 2018, that sheds light on a disturbing period in American history—the reign of the Manson Family. Drawing from genuine events and reinterpreting them through a fictional lens, the film features Jackley as Manson’s defiant, rebellious follower, the character of Counterculture journalist Paul Krassner, and outstanding performances by the leads— Jen Bevan, Elliott Kashner, and Cindy Marie Martin.

Directed by Lonnie Martin, the film opens up with a unique premise. It doesn't concentrate on the infamous Manson Murders themselves. Instead, it focuses on the time shortly before the horrendous events and lurid stories involving Charles Manson and his devoted followers—the Manson Family.

Set in the historically significant year of 1969, The Last of the Manson Girls explores Charles Manson's eccentric commune from the perspective of a fearful nation still grappling with the horrors of the Vietnam War. The film reflects a societal revolt against social conventions, paralleled with the chaotic transformation of the peace and love movement.

Jen Bevan portrays Manson's devoted follower Joyce, with a performance that brilliantly exemplifies the twisted dedication these individuals felt towards the charismatic cult leader Charles Manson. Her captivating performance sets the tone for the commune's eerie atmosphere, presenting an authentic depiction of life within the infamously notorious Manson Family.

Elliott Kashner stars as Paul Krassner, the real-life investigative journalist known for his involvement in the counterculture movement. Kashner's portrayal of Krassner is genuinely compelling. Here, the character is an outsider, questioning and investigating the dark, disturbing activities of the Manson Family. Through his eyes, the audience gets submerged into the psychological vortex that is Charles Manson's group. Notably, the movie refrains from presenting Krassner as a stereotypical ‘hero.’ Instead, he is humanized, complete with flaws and fears of his own, which adds to the overall raw intensity and realism of the film.

Cindy Marie Martin plays Patricia Krenwinkel (Katie) in the film. Her earnest portrayal infuses the narrative with an eerie sense of placid acceptance of the cult practices. She plays a character engaged in Manson’s twisted interpretation of communal peace, depicting how easily young minds were misguided under Manson's psychological manipulation.

The film's plot is a steady progression of escalating tension, introducing viewers to the alarming dynamics within the Manson commune and their perception of societal norms. The exploration of youthful disillusionment, charismatic manipulation, and misplaced devotion is subtle yet chilling, making The Last of the Manson Girls an impactful watch. It’s attention to detail and accurate portrayal of the era is commendable.

The screenplay boasts an excellent balance between psychological exploration and suspenseful tension. The narrative pulls the viewer into Manson's disquieting universe, offering a glimpse of the chilling calm before the storm. It—for the most part—avoids explicit violence or gore. Instead, it builds tension through atmospheric storytelling and outstanding performances, ensuring viewers are at the edge of their seats, despite knowing the inevitable outcome.

In terms of cinematography, the film is marked by hauntingly beautiful visuals, carefully crafted to create a sense of unease and impending doom, yet maintaining an eerily tranquil aesthetic in line with the notions of freedom and peace espoused by the cult.

The Last of the Manson Girls is a profound film that marks an impressive attempt to explore the psyche of individuals intertwined in one of history's most chilling narratives. It's not merely a recounting of the Charles Manson story. Instead, it serves as an exploration of the human mind's delicate fabric when plagued by manipulation and charismatic domination. It successfully injects a sense of reality into a dark chapter of history, taking viewers on a chilling and suspenseful ride through a disturbingly tranquil dystopia.

The movie’s thought-provoking narrative, coupled with strong performances by the leads, makes The Last of the Manson Girls a chilling and intriguing exploration of one of America's darkest chapters. If you are drawn to psychological dramas and movies based on historically significant events, The Last of the Manson Girls will keep you hooked throughout its duration.

The movie is garden–fresh and gritty, bringing the audience closer to the grim truth of the Manson story and those who got tangled up in its web. The film pellucidly depicts a horrific slice of history, the individuals caught within it, and the fragile psyche of a nation that stood witness to it all.