Small Sacrifices
Small Sacrifices

Small Sacrifices

1989Movie159 minEnglish

A peculiar and disturbing case catches the attention of the police when a young mother and her children, all severely injured, show up in a hospital's emergency room.

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Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Director: Joanna KernsGenres: Drama, Crime, Thriller

Plot Summary

Based on a true story, "Small Sacrifices" chronicles the disturbing events surrounding Diane Downs, a woman who meticulously planned and executed the murder of her children, and her subsequent attempts to manipulate the legal system. The film delves into her disturbing motivations and the investigation that uncovers the chilling truth behind her actions.

Critical Reception

The miniseries was recognized for its powerful and disturbing portrayal of a real-life crime, with particular praise directed at Farrah Fawcett's intense performance. While it tackled a dark subject matter, it was generally seen as a compelling and well-acted drama that captured the horrifying nature of the events.

What Reviewers Say

  • Farrah Fawcett delivers a tour-de-force performance as the deeply disturbed Diane Downs.
  • The miniseries chillingly depicts the psychological manipulation and calculated violence at the heart of the case.
  • A gripping and disturbing true-crime drama that remains impactful.

Google audience: Audience reviews for "Small Sacrifices" often highlight Farrah Fawcett's unforgettable performance, noting how she brought a terrifying authenticity to the role of Diane Downs. Viewers found the miniseries to be a disturbing yet captivating watch, praising its faithful adaptation of the true crime events.

Awards & Accolades

Farrah Fawcett received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie.

Fun Fact

The miniseries is based on the best-selling book of the same name by Ann Rule, a renowned true-crime author.

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