A Cry in the Dark Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A dingo ruins a family vacation, and then the Australian legal system ruins their lives even more, all because Meryl Streep didn’t cry enough.

🍿 A Cry in the Dark: Detailed Plot Synopsis

A Camping Trip Turns Tragic

The film opens with the Chamberlain family, Lindy (Meryl Streep), Michael (Sam Neill), their two sons, and infant daughter Azaria, embarking on a camping trip to Ayers Rock in the Australian Outback. During a barbecue with fellow campers, Lindy discovers Azaria missing from their tent, claiming to have seen a dingo nearby.

Investigation and Suspicion

A massive search ensues, but Azaria is never found. Initially, the authorities and public sympathize with the Chamberlains. However, inconsistencies in Lindy’s story, coupled with her perceived lack of emotion and the family’s Seventh-day Adventist faith, lead to suspicion and scrutiny. The media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion against the Chamberlains.

Trial and Conviction

Lindy is charged with murder, and Michael is charged as an accessory. The trial becomes a media circus, with sensationalized reporting and rampant speculation. Despite a lack of concrete evidence, Lindy is convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. Michael receives a suspended sentence.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Lindy Chamberlain (Meryl Streep): A stoic mother who is wrongly accused of murdering her baby after claiming a dingo took her.
• Michael Chamberlain (Sam Neill): Lindy’s husband, a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, whose faith and belief in his wife are tested during the ordeal.
• Barker (Bruce Myles): The lead Prosecutor, using circumstantial evidence, who aggressively prosecutes Lindy Chamberlain.
• Phillips (Neil Fitzpatrick): Another Prosecutor contributing to the prosecution of Lindy Chamberlain.
• Justice Muirhead (Charles ‘Bud’ Tingwell): The presiding judge during Lindy Chamberlain’s trial, overseeing the proceedings.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Lindy: “The dingo’s got my baby!” – Lindy’s initial frantic cry after realizing Azaria was missing, which became a widely recognized and often parodied phrase.
• Lindy: “I don’t care what people think, I know what happened.” – Demonstrates Lindy’s resolve and conviction in the face of public scrutiny and doubt.
• Michael: “I don’t know what to believe anymore.” – Reflects Michael’s wavering faith and trust in Lindy as the trial progresses and the evidence becomes more complex.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $15,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $6,908,797
• Worldwide Gross: $6,908,797

💥 A Cry in the Dark Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching this movie and being completely captivated by Meryl Streep’s performance. The way she portrayed Lindy’s strength and vulnerability at the same time was incredible. It made me really think about how easily people can be judged and how much damage media can cause. Sam Neill was also great. The scene where he breaks down in court was heartbreaking! This movie really stuck with me, and I still think about it from time to time. Definitely a must-see!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of legal dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in true crime stories”
  • “Those who appreciate strong performances, especially by Meryl Streep”
  • “People interested in Australian history and culture”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Themes of child loss”
  • “Disturbing content related to animal attacks”
  • “Intense courtroom scenes”
  • “Mature themes of grief and prejudice”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “A Cry in the Dark is a powerful courtroom drama anchored by Meryl Streep’s compelling performance as Lindy Chamberlain. While the film effectively portrays the media frenzy, it is Streep’s nuanced portrayal of a stoic and misunderstood woman that truly resonates.
• RogerEbert.com: “Fred Schepisi’s A Cry in the Dark is a searing indictment of media sensationalism and the dangers of public opinion. Meryl Streep delivers a masterclass in acting, capturing the complexity of a woman unfairly judged. The film is a testament to the importance of due process and the devastating consequences of prejudice.
• The New York Times: “Meryl Streep is magnificent in A Cry in the Dark, bringing depth and empathy to a character often vilified by the public. The film effectively conveys the suffocating atmosphere of the media circus and the disintegration of the Chamberlain’s lives, leaving audiences deeply moved and disturbed.

Audience Reactions

Meryl Streep’s accent and portrayal of Lindy Chamberlain were absolutely spot-on!: Viewers were amazed by Meryl Streep’s ability to embody the complex character of Lindy Chamberlain, particularly her accurate Australian accent.

The movie made me so angry at how the media and public treated the Chamberlains.: Many felt the film effectively highlighted the dangers of media sensationalism and how it can unjustly influence public opinion.

Overall Consensus: A Cry in the Dark is a powerful and thought-provoking film, largely driven by Meryl Streep’s outstanding performance. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of prejudice and the destructive force of media frenzy.

Awards

1. Australian Film Institute Awards (Best Film)- 1988
2. Australian Film Institute Awards (Best Actress)- 1988
3. Cannes Film Festival (Best Actress)- 1989

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Meryl Streep worked extensively with a dialect coach to perfect her Australian accent, aiming for accuracy rather than caricature.”
• “The film was shot on location at Uluru (Ayers Rock) and in other parts of the Australian Outback, adding authenticity to the story.”
• “The filmmakers faced the challenge of portraying the sensitivity around the case, given that Azaria’s body was never found and the controversy surrounding Lindy Chamberlain’s conviction and later exoneration remained a touchy subject in Australia.”
• “Many Australian actors, well-known for comedic roles, were cast in supporting parts, which added depth to the film and showed their range as performers.”

🖥️ How to Watch A Cry in the Dark?

A Cry in the Dark is available for streaming on various platforms. You can rent or buy it on Prime Video, Apple TV, and other digital retailers. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed A Cry in the Dark, you might like these similar films:

• The Devil’s Knot (2013): Explores the complexities of a highly publicized case involving the wrongful conviction of teenagers in the death of children, fueled by media and public hysteria.
• Conviction (2010): Deals with wrongful conviction and the long legal battle to prove someone’s innocence, showcasing the dedication and perseverance required to fight the system.
• Doubt (2008): Explores themes of religious prejudice and how accusations and suspicion can damage lives, even without concrete evidence.
• In the Name of the Father (1993): Based on a true story of a man wrongly accused of terrorism, highlighting flaws within the legal system and the impact of media sensationalism.

🛒 A Cry in the Dark Related Products

• Evil Angels: The Story of Lindy Chamberlain: The original book by John Bryson that inspired the film. This detailed account provides an in-depth look at the Chamberlain case, exploring the complexities of the evidence, the media coverage, and the public perception.
• Meryl Streep: A Life on Film: A biography exploring Meryl Streep’s iconic career, including her Oscar-nominated performance in A Cry in the Dark. Discover the behind-the-scenes stories and her dedication to authentic portrayals, including the masterful Australian accent.
• Australian Outback Adventure Set: An interactive playset with figures, a tent, and animal toys to inspire creative storytelling and adventures. This toy set brings the wonder of the Australian Outback to kids who will enjoy the geographical and historical elements while they play.
• The Chamberlain Case Documentary Collection: This collection includes rare news footage, interviews, and documentaries about the Chamberlain case. Perfect for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the real events and the media’s influence.

🎧 Soundtrack

A Cry in the Dark features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Title” – performed by Bruce Smeaton
• “Azaria” – performed by Bruce Smeaton
• “Trial and Tribulation” – performed by Bruce Smeaton

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Meryl Streep- Interview (A Cry In The Dark) 1988 [Reelin’ In The Years Archives]

Ever wonder what Meryl Streep *really* thought about playing Lindy Chamberlain? This interview dives deep into her process and understanding of the controversial case. I found her comments on public perception super fascinating!

Meryl Streep in A Cry in the Dark (Evil Angels)

Want a quick reminder of how brilliant Meryl Streep was in this role? This short clip highlights some of her most impactful scenes. Seriously, her emotional range is insane!

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