Changeling

It’s sad to experience the fallout of corrupt bureaucrats especially when they appear to have some links to the disappearances of your dear ones. In this ‘true story’ Angelina Jolie stars as Christine Collins, whose son, Walter, went missing in March 1928. Five months later, the Los Angeles police announced that her son had been found.

They organised a photo-op for the mother-son reunion but amidst all these Collins knew the boy was not hers.
When she persistently asked the police to continue their search, she found herself thrown into a mental hospital after being accused of being ‘mentally unfit’. However, with the help of activist Rev Briegleb (John Malkovich), she fought to unravel the truth.

Changeling is not exactly a thriller. It turns out to be more of an open-secret outrage kind of film where you can safely say the LAPD or many law enforcing agencies tend to protect their tarnished image.

Jolie, Malkovich and Geoff Pierson, as a lawyer who takes Collins’ case do very well. Jason Butler Harner as the murderous sick killer looks real. On top of all, nobody can doubt Jolie’s maternal side even in this film. Being a mother must really have helped her a lot.

‘Dirty Harry’ Clint Eastwood as director is getting better with each film. This film cements his uncharacteristic style of film making with classic touch.

Perhaps, the only annoying thing about this film is the script which tends to take many turns leaving too many loose ends and some dull flashbacks. The plot also appears to let it go after 90 minutes or so.

Overall, the authentic setup of the 1920s and the story itself will capture you emotionally.
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English (A)
Cast: Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich, Jeffrey Donovan, Michael Kelly, Colm Feore, Jason Butler Harner, Geoff Pierson, Gattlin Griffith
Director: Clint Eastwood