Over the holidays Matthew and I had the opportunity to see the 2008 film The Changeling. I say 2008 because there was a horror classic by the same name, and several people I know confused this film with a possible remake.

While not a horror this film is based around some gruesome events that occurred in the late 20s - early 30s in Southern California. These horrific kidnappings, and murders of young children became known as the Wineville Chicken Coop Murders.

The film begins in 1928 Los Angeles and tells the true story of a woman who recognizes that the boy returned after her son's disappearance is an impostor. After confronting the city authorities, she is vilified as an unfit mother and branded delusional.

Being a parent the film was naturally difficult to watch at certain points, however I did not feel an emotional connection to the lead character played by Angelina Jolie that I had expected I would. Don't get me wrong I do appreciate Jolie's work as an actress, just not in this film.

The plot is comprised of very difficult subject matter, and I am not certain how it could have been made better while respecting the gravity of these events, and not sensationalizing them. Yet, I was left with the feeling it could have been a lot better.

Seen any good films based on historical events? What do you recommend?

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