----------------------------Original message---------------------------- Susan Crutchfield was saying how she hated this film because of the lack of horrific reflection implicit in the film, the humorous rapport the audience feels with the girls, and general problematic positioning (I hope I haven't misinterpreted). Personally, these were all strengths for me. We couldn't look at them and say "They're evil" or "I'd never act like that." Up until the murder, every action & fantasy seems to be justifiable and make "sense" (whatever that means). Two women I saw it with both said that they could totally relate to much of the girls' experiences. So I think we are supposed to position ourselves with them and participate in their actions. Until the murder that is. I didn't think they came off as "insane" (as Anne Perry asserts was true). And thus the most disturbing thing that I felt about the film (and the "true" events surrounding it) was that there was no "reason" for why they killed someone and most people don't. I respect Peter Jackson (director) for not providing one simple reason. There are many causes pointed at, but no pat answers. That's quite refreshing to see in a film. And quite disturbing too as you ask yourself why you wouldn't kill the mother and can't find a reason that they would & you wouldn't. Great film. Keep talking. ******** jajasoon tlitteu ([log in to unmask]) "Academic training was instrumental. You have to understand the language of society before you can start stretching and subverting it and ripping and tearing it and burning it and watching the plastic drip on the ants."