Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019)

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile is a 2019 American biographical crime drama that chronicles the life of one of America’s most infamous serial killers, Ted Bundy. Directed by Joe Berlinger, the film focuses on Bundy’s crimes, his trial, and his complex relationship with his long-time girlfriend, Elizabeth Kloepfer. What makes this film stand out is its perspective, as it primarily explores the events through Elizabeth’s eyes, offering a unique lens on Bundy’s manipulative and deceptive nature.

The film stars Zac Efron as Ted Bundy, a role that marked a departure from his usual work in romantic comedies and musicals. Efron’s performance as the charming yet chilling Bundy is both captivating and unsettling, as he masterfully captures the killer’s ability to charm those around him while concealing his dark and violent tendencies. His portrayal adds a layer of complexity to Bundy’s character, making the audience question how such a seemingly likable person could commit horrific crimes.

Lily Collins plays Elizabeth Kloepfer, Bundy’s girlfriend, who is initially unaware of his true nature. As she begins to suspect that he may be involved in the gruesome murders of young women, the film delves into her internal struggle and emotional turmoil. Collins delivers a heartfelt performance, portraying Elizabeth’s confusion, denial, and eventual realization with depth and authenticity. The relationship between Elizabeth and Bundy is central to the film, highlighting the psychological manipulation and control that Bundy exerted over her.

One of the most striking aspects of Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile is its portrayal of Bundy’s trial. The film uses the courtroom drama as a way to explore Bundy’s public persona, as he represented himself during his trial, further showcasing his narcissism and sense of entitlement. The media frenzy surrounding his trial is also an important aspect of the film, as it reveals how Bundy’s charisma and good looks were often more captivating to the public than the brutal nature of his crimes.

The film’s pacing and tone are intentionally subdued, focusing more on the psychological aspects of Bundy’s actions rather than the graphic violence itself. This choice creates an unsettling atmosphere, as the audience is left to ponder the true nature of Bundy’s evil, which is more terrifying because it is so difficult to detect. By focusing on his manipulation and the way he deceived those closest to him, the film highlights the chilling reality that evil can often present itself in the most unexpected forms.

In conclusion, Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile offers a compelling and disturbing look at the life of Ted Bundy, portraying him not just as a murderer, but as a master manipulator who hid his darkness behind a charming façade. With strong performances from Zac Efron and Lily Collins, the film explores themes of deception, denial, and the horror of realizing the truth. It is a haunting reminder of the complexity of human evil and the ways in which it can affect those closest to us.