Becoming Ian Brady (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Becoming Ian Brady presents a chilling exploration of one of Britain’s most infamous criminals. The film takes a bold step in shifting the focus from Myra Hindley to Ian Brady himself, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities behind his monstrous actions. The narrative is structured arou ... Show more >> Becoming Ian Brady presents a chilling exploration of one of Britain’s most infamous criminals. The film takes a bold step in shifting the focus from Myra Hindley to Ian Brady himself, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities behind his monstrous actions. The narrative is structured around Brady's early life, illustrating how his upbringing and psychological state contributed to his heinous crimes. The performances are commendable, particularly the actor portraying Brady, who captures the chilling charisma and coldness of the character. The direction is tight, maintaining a suspenseful tone throughout, while the cinematography effectively evokes a sense of dread. Although the subject matter is inherently disturbing, the film handles it with a level of sensitivity that invites reflection rather than sensationalism. Overall, Becoming Ian Brady is a thought-provoking watch that challenges viewers to confront the darkness within human nature. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Watching Becoming Ian Brady is like stepping into a dark abyss. It’s a film that grips you with its unsettling portrayal of evil, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. The film dives deep into Ian Brady's psyche, but at times, it feels like it’s trying too hard to elicit sympathy for a monster. The pa ... Show more >> Watching Becoming Ian Brady is like stepping into a dark abyss. It’s a film that grips you with its unsettling portrayal of evil, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. The film dives deep into Ian Brady's psyche, but at times, it feels like it’s trying too hard to elicit sympathy for a monster. The pacing can drag, especially in moments that linger on his backstory rather than the actual events of the Moors Murders. The performances are strong, particularly from the lead, who embodies Brady's chilling presence well. However, I found the film’s tone to be uneven; it oscillates between being a psychological study and a true crime drama, leaving me unsure of its central focus. While it offers some valuable insights, I couldn't shake the feeling that it might glorify a figure who deserves no admiration. If you're intrigued by the darker sides of humanity, it’s worth a watch, but manage your expectations. Show less