A Killing in a Small Town Poster

A Killing in a Small Town 1990

★ 4.811 votes100 min📅 1990-05-22

Dive into the unsettling true-crime drama *A Killing in a Small Town (1990)*, directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal, where a quiet suburban life in Texas is shattered by a shocking act of violence.

Director: Stephen Gyllenhaal

Cast

Barbara Hershey
Barbara Hershey
Candy Morrison
Brian Dennehy
Brian Dennehy
Ed Reivers
John Terry
John Terry
Stan Blankenship
Richard Gilliland
Richard Gilliland
Dale Morrison
Lee Garlington
Lee Garlington
Peggy Blankenship
Hal Holbrook
Hal Holbrook
Dr. Beardsley
Matthew Posey
Matthew Posey
Norman Billings
James Monroe Black
Dr. Giles
Dennis Letts
Dennis Letts
Chief McAlester
Marco Perella
Marco Perella
Rick Slocum

Frequently Asked Questions

What is A Killing in a Small Town (1990) about?

This 1990 crime drama revisits a chilling real-life ax-murder in suburban Texas, where the accused's claim of self-defense upends expectations. The film examines the psychological and legal battles that unfold after the violent act, blending suspense with a stark look at justice.

Who directed A Killing in a Small Town?

Stephen Gyllenhaal, known for his work in both film and television, directed *A Killing in a Small Town (1990)*, bringing a sharp focus to the movie's tense narrative.

Who stars in A Killing in a Small Town?

The film features standout performances from Barbara Hershey, Brian Dennehy, John Terry, Richard Gilliland, and Hal Holbrook.

Is A Killing in a Small Town (1990) worth watching?

If you enjoy crime dramas with a psychological edge and strong performances, *A Killing in a Small Town (1990)* is absolutely worth your time. Its unsettling premise and thought-provoking exploration of self-defense make it a compelling watch for fans of the genre.

How long is A Killing in a Small Town?

The film runs for 100 minutes, offering a tight, intense viewing experience.

🎥 Trailer

About A Killing in a Small Town (1990) — A gripping suburban crime drama with a twist

Dive into the unsettling true-crime drama *A Killing in a Small Town (1990)*, directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal, where a quiet suburban life in Texas is shattered by a shocking act of violence. This gripping TV movie explores the harrowing ax-murder of one housewife by another, leaving audiences stunned not just by the brutality, but by the shocking legal defense that follows. With a tense atmosphere brimming with moral ambiguity, the film delves into themes of self-defense, societal expectations, and the darker corners of human nature. Barbara Hershey and Brian Dennehy deliver powerhouse performances that anchor this intense narrative, making it a standout in the crime drama genre.

At its core, *A Killing in a Small Town (1990)* is a character-driven exploration of desperation and survival, wrapped in the deceptive calm of suburban living. The film's stark realism and psychological depth invite viewers to question the boundaries of justice and the lengths people will go to protect themselves. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or drawn to stories that challenge moral norms, this 1990 gem offers a gripping, thought-provoking experience.