Evil Angels
Evil Angels

Evil Angels

1988Movie120 minEnglish

Based on the true story of Lindy Chamberlain who, during a family camping trip to Ayers Rock in central Australia, claimed she witnessed a dingo take her baby daughter, Azaria, from their tent. Azaria's body was never found and, after investigations and two public inquests, she is charged with murder.

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Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes83%
Metacritic73/100
Google Users80%
Director: Fred SchepisiGenres: Drama, Biography, Crime

Plot Summary

In the remote Australian outback, Lindy Chamberlain proclaims her baby daughter Azaria was killed by a dingo. However, her claims are met with disbelief and suspicion by the local community and authorities. Lindy is subsequently put on trial for murder, and the ensuing legal battle becomes a media circus, dividing public opinion and revealing deep-seated prejudices.

Critical Reception

Evil Angels received critical acclaim upon its release, particularly for Meryl Streep's powerful performance and Fred Schepisi's sensitive direction. While some found the pacing deliberate, the film was widely praised for its handling of complex themes like grief, public hysteria, and the justice system's flaws. It resonated with audiences for its tragic portrayal of a woman caught in an unimaginable ordeal.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Meryl Streep's intense and nuanced portrayal of Lindy Chamberlain.
  • Commended for its sensitive and gripping exploration of a controversial real-life case.
  • Appreciated for its directorial skill in navigating complex emotional and legal territory.

Google audience: Google users largely found the film to be a compelling and emotionally resonant drama, with many highlighting Meryl Streep's exceptional performance as a standout. The film's handling of the tragic events and the public's reaction was frequently cited as a strong point.

Awards & Accolades

Meryl Streep won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film also received nominations and wins at various international film festivals.

Fun Fact

The film was retitled 'A Cry in the Dark' in many international markets, including the United States, to avoid confusion with other films and to better reflect the nature of the tragedy.

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