Stunning, matter-of-fact television film runs around three hours but holds it's grip the entire time. Steve Railsback is absolutely mesmerizing(..and terrifying)as Charles Manson, the cult leader claiming to be Jesus Christ and commanding his followers(four of them mainly)to murder rich "pigs" in California. Most notable was pregnant actress Sharon Tate, famous director Roman Polanski's woman, along with others in the house that horrible night. Along with those were the La Biancas, also unfortunate chosen victims of the Manson followers. Along with Railsback chilling portrayal was Nancy Wolfe as Susan Atkins who will bring eerie goosebumps as she describes in luridly evil(yet coldly and unapologetically)detail how she murdered Sharon Tate as she begged for herself and the unborn baby she was carrying. Not to mention how she describes the "gurgling sound" that a victim makes choking in their own blood. We also hear about how a fork was used to carve "war" in Mr. La Bianca's torso. Another interesting(..and good)casting choice is Marilyn Burns in the important role of Linda Kasabian..the young follower who would be the ultimate voice that put away five cold blooded killers. George DiCenzo portrays DA Vincent Bugliosi, the man whose life would certainly be effected by the immense strain of putting together an extremely difficult case against Manson..who was the lynch-pin in causing a rest in the fear so many were feeling.
The film covers in pain-staking detail the events before, during, & after the case(even the mass media aspects revolving around the case).
The film covers in pain-staking detail the events before, during, & after the case(even the mass media aspects revolving around the case).