Review of Heavenly Creatures (1994) by Spencer S — 05 Dec 2012

This disturbing take on a set of real events comes to life from director Peter Jackson, at the time the master of horror-comedy. Set and filmed in New Zealand and starring newcomers Kate Winslet and Melanie Lynskey, the film propelled the former into stardom and started a fast track for the other to become a character actress.

The story is one of a deep connection, a flawed outlook on life, a friendship that shifts with their sick lives, and the murderous intent of two girls who have drove themselves into the depths of madness.

Based on the true story of the Parker-Hulme murder of two teenage girls killing one of their mothers so they could stay together in a fantastical imagination land that the two of them built, it exacts a macabre and cruel vengeance over the viewer.

Fusing Claymation, horror, and the inner follies of the two girls over their partnership and eventual murder plans, Jackson uses voice over narration from Parker's own diary to infuse bitter resentment throughout the film.

Winslet is a bright star in her own right, her true debut and the propellant to her eventual fame. Here she is carefree, enigmatic, and obviously disturbed as a power hungry vigilante in her dreams. Lynskey is dark and the epitome of brooding, as she time and again is taken away from the object of her desire: Hulme.

She fights with her mother, and obviously is getting ready to do the mischievous deed. This differs from many biopics because it's far more centered on the buildup to infamy than the aftermath. Their relationship is so steeped in exclusivity and demonic insight into their madness and the co-dependence that led to their irresponsible and juvenile decision to flee the country for famedom and be together forever.

It's a beautiful and inviting film, even if you want to rescind it immediately.