Is An American Crime Based on a True Story? Cast, Plot, Release Date and More
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Updated Jul 16, 2024
Is An American Crime Based on a True Story?
Yes, "An American Crime" is based on a true story. It depicts the real-life tragedy of Sylvia Likens, a teenage girl who was entrusted to Gertrude Baniszewski in 1965 while her parents were away. Gertrude, with help from her children and others, subjected Sylvia to severe abuse and torture, leading to her tragic death.
The film portrays the brutal events Sylvia endured, highlighting the shocking realities of neglect and cruelty. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognizing and preventing such injustices in society.
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An American Crime
"An American Crime" is a 2007 film directed by Tommy O'Haver, the movie stars Elliot Page and Catherine Keener. It delves into the disturbing events surrounding Sylvia's stay with Gertrude Baniszewski, a single mother in Indianapolis who, along with her children and neighborhood kids, subjected Sylvia to intense physical and emotional torment.
The film portrays the chilling details of Sylvia's ordeal, revealing the tragic consequences of unchecked cruelty and neglect. Despite its powerful depiction, the movie faced distribution challenges and premiered on Showtime in 2008. "An American Crime" received critical acclaim for its portrayal of a shocking true story, earning nominations for awards such as the Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy, particularly for Catherine Keener's compelling performance as Gertrude.
An American Crime Cast
| Cast | Character |
| Elliot Page | Sylvia Likens |
| Catherine Keener | Gertrude Baniszewski |
| Hayley McFarland | Jenny Fay Likens |
| Ari Graynor | Paula Baniszewski |
| Nick Searcy | Lester Likens |
| Romy Rosemont | Betty Likens |
| Evan Peters | Ricky Hobbs |
| James Franco | Andy Gordon |
| Brian Geraghty | Bradley |
| Michael Welch | Teddy Lewis |
| Scott Reeves | Eric |
| Jeremy Sumpter | Coy Hubbard |
| Scout Taylor-Compton | Stephanie Baniszewski |
| Tristan Jarred | Johnny Baniszewski |
| Hannah Leigh Dworkin | Shirley Baniszewski |
| Carlie Westerman | Marie Baniszewski |
| Bradley Whitford | Prosecutor Leroy K. New |
| Michael O'Keefe | Reverend Bill Collier |
An American Crime Release Date
"An American Crime" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 19, 2007. This event marked its initial screening before it later became available to a broader audience. The film was subsequently released on Showtime on May 10, 2008, allowing viewers to watch it on television. Its release dates helped introduce the story to audiences, portraying a significant event in its journey from festival debut to wider accessibility through a television platform.
An American Crime Plot
"An American Crime" is based on the true story of Sylvia Likens, a teenager left in the care of Gertrude Baniszewski in 1965. Sylvia and her sister, Jenny, are supposed to stay with Gertrude for $20 a week while their parents travel with a carnival. When the money doesn't come, Gertrude becomes abusive. She accuses Sylvia of lies and allows her children and others to hurt Sylvia physically and emotionally. Gertrude even brands Sylvia with words on her stomach with a heated needle.
Paula, Gertrude's daughter, starts feeling guilty about Sylvia's treatment. She helps Sylvia escape, but Sylvia's injuries are too severe, and she dies. The police get involved, and Jenny agrees to testify against Gertrude. Gertrude tries to blame others in court but is sentenced to life in prison for murder and abuse.
The movie shows the horrors Sylvia faced and how neglect and cruelty can have devastating consequences. It's a tragic reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and speaking up against injustice.