Known as California's Death House Landlady, Dorothea Puente, played by Susan Priver, recounts her story from her prison deathbed. After killing nine people, she joins the short list of American female serial killers.
Initially, I was less than thrilled. I worried we were headed down the same path as *Monster* (2003), where Aileen was portrayed sympathetically. However, within two minutes, it was clear Dorothea would not follow that route. Puente kills for money and feels no remorse for what she did to survive.
It's a great story, told well. The film breaks the fourth wall, features side conversations in the narration, and has an awesome soundtrack. The best way to describe this film is quirky, and I'm here for it. While based on true crime, this is a horror movie. Dorothea is as much of a slasher as you'll see on screen: cold, calculated, and ruthless. Priver is amazing in this role. While Dorothea is as evil as I have described, Priver plays her with the sweetness of a loving grandmother.
I kind of feel bad enjoying this movie as much as I do because it is real life. Real people lost their lives, so I want to respect that. This is part of Dread's inaugural foray into true crime. Ed Kemper was released earlier this year, and Richard Ramirez will follow this one. I can't wait to continue with this series.
It's currently in a limited theater release until November 4th, then it will be coming to video-on-demand. Highly recommended; catch it as soon as you can.
IMDb has this one at a 7.7/10. For me, it's a 7.5/10. Solid Screams.
Right or wrong, weak or strong...these are my opinions.
