The most fascinating character in Fred Schepisi's Evil Angels is Australia itself: the people who gossiped until a personal family tragedy was transformed into a national travesty. The Azaria Chamberlain murder case became a media circus and the film seems to argue that Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton's wrongful conviction was a kind of manifestation of the will of the Australian people who mistrusted her, her family, and her religion. Brief vignettes of Australians from all walks of life discussing the case (and usually adamant in their condemnation of Lindy) are interspersed throughout the film. And then there is, of course, Meryl Streep's rightfully legendary performance as Lindy. Streep's performance was one of purposeful emotional restraint in the face of incredible pressure and familial tragedy. The role would have crushed a lesser actress. And while everyone remembers Streep's performance, I believe it is important not to overlook Sam Neill’s turn as her husband Michael Chamberlain. It is my humble opinion that he more than matched Streep's performance.
8/10
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