"Manson: The Women" (2019) lands a solid 3 stars in the galaxy of true crime documentaries, a commendable effort in a genre that's more crowded than a Manson Family reunion. The film does an admirable job at shedding light on the women of the Manson Family, showcasing their stories with the kind of detail usually reserved for Manson's more infamous, less hair-brained escapades. However, it's about as revolutionary as a spoon in a knife fight, serving up a familiar stew of archival footage and talking heads that could use a dash more spice.
The documentary's strength lies in its focus, giving voice to the women who fell under Manson's spell, which is both its charm and its curse. While it's fascinating to dive into their psyches, the narrative sometimes feels like it's on a loop, a merry-go-round that can't quite find its stop. It's a bit like listening to your uncle recount his glory days with the enthusiasm of someone who's forgotten it's not his first time telling the tale. You're engaged, sure, but you're also eyeing the exits.
In the end, "Manson: The Women" does what it sets out to do, albeit in a manner as conventional as Manson was unconventional. It's the documentary equivalent of a reliable family sedan: it'll get you where you need to go, but don't expect to turn any heads on the journey. For those steeped in Manson lore or newcomers curious about the saga's less-explored angles, it offers a solid, if not earth-shattering, viewing experience. Just maybe have a cup of coffee handy - for historical intrigue, not wakefulness.
The documentary's strength lies in its focus, giving voice to the women who fell under Manson's spell, which is both its charm and its curse. While it's fascinating to dive into their psyches, the narrative sometimes feels like it's on a loop, a merry-go-round that can't quite find its stop. It's a bit like listening to your uncle recount his glory days with the enthusiasm of someone who's forgotten it's not his first time telling the tale. You're engaged, sure, but you're also eyeing the exits.
In the end, "Manson: The Women" does what it sets out to do, albeit in a manner as conventional as Manson was unconventional. It's the documentary equivalent of a reliable family sedan: it'll get you where you need to go, but don't expect to turn any heads on the journey. For those steeped in Manson lore or newcomers curious about the saga's less-explored angles, it offers a solid, if not earth-shattering, viewing experience. Just maybe have a cup of coffee handy - for historical intrigue, not wakefulness.
