"LONGFORD"
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MOVIE: **** (out of 5 stars) DVD EXPERIENCE: **** (out of 5 stars) STARRING Jim Broadbent as LORD LONGFORD Samantha Morton as MYRA HINDLEY Andy Serkis as IAN BRADY Not Rated Studio: HBO Directed by: Tom Hooper |
In 1965, Myra Hindley and her partner Ian Brady were arrested for the horrific abuse and murder of several children and teenagers. The press and public were appalled that a woman had committed such offenses and condemned her for life, as did the court.
Frank Pakenham, the seventh Earl of Longford, throughout his life made an effort to visit prisoners, including Myra Hindley. Lord Longford had a fairly close relationship with Hindley, much to the chagrin of his wife who deplored her, and advocated for her parole. Naturally, the public was outraged that such a woman should ever be considered as fit to re-enter society.
“Longford” is a story about the public turmoil that surrounded Lord Longford’s life during his contact with Myra Hindley. The story is very fascinating and not in the least bit gruesome. Many will find it interesting that a film about such a heinous murderer can be purely a drama without any of the gory details our Law-and-Order society expects from such a story.
“Longford” is truly an intriguing story, and all actors give commendable performances.
The DVD offers audio commentary with the director and writer. Also included is a For the Record: Firsthand Accounts of the Moors Murders, a five-minute documentary that sheds a bit more light on the story but remains without any bloody details.
