An American Crime Poster

An American Crime 2007

★ 7.3763 votes97 min📅 2007-07-27

"The true story of a child's punishment that became a woman's crime."

Directed by Tommy O'Haver, *An American Crime (2007)* plunges viewers into the chilling true story of Gertrude Baniszewski, a suburban Indiana housewife whose twisted sense of justice led to unspeakable cruelty.

Director: Tommy O'Haver

Cast

Elliot Page
Elliot Page
Sylvia Likens
Catherine Keener
Catherine Keener
Gertrude Baniszewski
Hayley McFarland
Hayley McFarland
Jennifer Faye 'Jennie' Likens
Nick Searcy
Nick Searcy
Lester Likens
Romy Rosemont
Romy Rosemont
Betty Likens
Ari Graynor
Ari Graynor
Paula Baniszewski
Scout Taylor-Compton
Scout Taylor-Compton
Stephanie Baniszewski
Tristan Jarred
Tristan Jarred
Johnny Baniszewski
Hannah Leigh
Hannah Leigh
Shirley Baniszewski
Bradley Whitford
Bradley Whitford
Prosecutor

Frequently Asked Questions

What is An American Crime (2007) about?

The film recounts the disturbing true story of Gertrude Baniszewski, a suburban Indiana woman who imprisoned a teenage girl in her basement during the 1960s. What began as a misguided attempt at discipline escalated into a brutal act of violence that captured national attention.

Who directed An American Crime?

Tommy O'Haver directed *An American Crime*, bringing a raw, unsettling edge to this dark true-crime drama.

Who stars in An American Crime?

The film features Elliot Page, Catherine Keener, Hayley McFarland, Nick Searcy, and Romy Rosemont in pivotal roles.

Is An American Crime (2007) worth watching?

While the subject matter is heavy, *An American Crime* offers a gripping and well-acted exploration of human cruelty. Its unflinching portrayal of a dark chapter in history makes it a compelling watch for fans of crime dramas, though it's not for the faint of heart.

How long is An American Crime?

The runtime of *An American Crime* is approximately 97 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About An American Crime (2007) – The True Story That Shook 1960s America

Directed by Tommy O'Haver, *An American Crime (2007)* plunges viewers into the chilling true story of Gertrude Baniszewski, a suburban Indiana housewife whose twisted sense of justice led to unspeakable cruelty. Based on the harrowing 1960s case, the film follows Baniszewski's imprisonment of a teenage girl in her basement, an act that spiraled into a dark chapter of American history. Starring Elliot Page as the victim and Catherine Keener as the tormentor, the movie blends crime, drama, and psychological horror to expose the fragility of morality under societal pressure.

With a grim atmosphere and unflinching performances, *An American Crime (2007)* forces audiences to confront the banality of evil and the dangers of unchecked authority. The film's haunting narrative lingers long after the credits roll, leaving viewers to ponder the thin line between punishment and persecution. A chilling exploration of human cruelty, it's a story that demands attention—and refuses to let go.