An American Crime (2007)

Sixteen year old Sylvia Likens and her fifteen year old sister Jenny have always traveled with their parents when working at the carnival. But when they separate they decide to have their daughters stay with a single mother named Gertrude Baniszewski and her six children, whom the girls met at church. Sylvia befriends Gertie's oldest daughter Paula who tells Sylvia that she's pregnant and to keep it a secret. But when Sylvia sees Paula being attacked by her boyfriend she confesses, Paula gets back at her by telling Gertrude that she's spreading lies about her. Gertrude forces Sylvia to apologize to Paula, but it doesn't stop there. They leave Sylvia in their basement where she is tortured and horribly abused. A shocking crime drama that is hard to watch, not for the faint of heart. Based on a true story, this film stays with you long after it's over and shows that there is no excuse for child abuse. Both Ellen Page and Catherine Keener give outstanding performances. Starring Ellen Page, Catherine Keener, Hayley McFarland, Ari Graynor, Scout Taylor-Compton 8/10