麻豆社

The title could fool you into thinking this documentary concerns executed lesbian serial killer Aileen Wuornos (soon a major film starring Charlize Theron!). Actually, it's the gripping story of filmmaker Nick Broomfield and his intrepid quest for The Truth.

"HILARIOUS"

Twelve years after telling Aileen's story in The Selling Of A Serial Killer, he's called to give evidence at her final appeal, prompting this unorthodox sequel. It also makes for a typically hilarious scene as Broomfield respectfully cross-examines the prosecuting attorney.

Aileen's ex-lawyer, hippy pothead Dr Legal, is also in contempt. His advice to any client facing the electric chair is: "Don't sit down." Meanwhile, Governor Jeb Bush is running for re-election on a pro-death penalty ticket with the unofficial campaign slogan "Just stick 'em on a gurney and let's rock n' roll!"

But the crux of this investigation is Aileen's decision to repeal her claim of self-defence regarding her first victim (of seven), Richard Mallory. The plot thickens when she's fooled into thinking the camera is turned off and explains her u-turn to Broomfield. While ethically questionable, it makes for a fascinating insight into Aileen's state of mind.

The scene is Broomfield at his best: exposing the hypocrisy at the root of evil, whilst treading that fine line between comedy and tragedy. Other moments just feel needlessly exploitative, like Aileen's long-time friend Dawn Botkins claiming that, when they were at school, "Gays weren't invented yet."

"DELICIOUSLY DROLL"

While Broomfield raises intriguing questions about small-town morality, the machinations of government, and the inadequacies of the legal system, he treats these as glib footnotes. It makes for a tabloid account, albeit a deliciously droll sidebar to The Selling Of A Serial Killer.

Ultimately, it's left to Aileen to sum up her life and death in her final interview with Broomfield. With wild eyes, she barks to camera: "A woman got executed and was used for books and movies and s***!" The irony is painfully clear.