The Death of a Playmate: The Dorothy Stratten Story 20/20
The Death of a Playmate: The Dorothy Stratten Story 20/20

The Death of a Playmate: The Dorothy Stratten Story 20/20

2019Movie120 minEnglish

The story of Dorothy Stratten (1960-1980), the 1980 Playboy "Playmate of the Year", who was murdered by her estranged husband, just as her entertainment career was taking off.

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Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Rob LeucharsGenres: Documentary, Biography, Crime

Plot Summary

This documentary revisits the tragic life and untimely death of Dorothy Stratten, a Playboy Playmate of the Year who was murdered by her estranged husband and manager, Paul Snider. It explores her rise from a shy waitress to a celebrated model and aspiring actress, and the dark undercurrents of exploitation and abuse that ultimately led to her demise. The film also examines the lingering questions and controversies surrounding her life and death.

Critical Reception

As a documentary featured on 20/20, critical reception is generally focused on its presentation of a well-known tragedy. Reviews often highlight the emotional impact of revisiting Stratten's story and the journalistic approach of the 20/20 team in presenting the facts. Audience response tends to be a mix of sadness, fascination with the narrative, and reflection on the darker side of the modeling and entertainment industry.

What Reviewers Say

  • A somber and thorough retelling of Dorothy Stratten's life and tragic end.
  • Explores the exploitative nature of the entertainment industry through a compelling biographical lens.
  • Raises questions about victimhood and the pursuit of fame.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this particular 20/20 documentary is not readily available. However, audience reactions to documentaries of this nature often express a deep sense of sorrow for Dorothy Stratten and a critical view of the individuals involved in her exploitation and death.

Fun Fact

Dorothy Stratten was posthumously named Playboy's Playmate of the Year in 1980, the same year she was murdered.

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