Mastermind

This was a truly excellent and appropriately timed series about an unsung hero in the behavioral science game, Ann Burgess. It follows her early work with victims of rape and using what she knew to formulate standards when the FBI was talking with serial killers. This gave the FBI something to compare and contrast when going through the data and arguably has very much improved what FBI knows about people who kill and how they treat victims. All while Mrs. Burgess was raising three kids and a married mother and nurse.

That being said, I have a quibble in general with profiling these days due to its being taken too far and its potential for abuse. When looked at as a "gut feeling" it isn't allowed in a court of law, but when called a "science" gut feelings are allowed in. I also have a quibble with her support of the Menéndez brothers. She supports there abuse story without a bit of evidence. That makes me think she could be manipulated and wonder about her credibility.

Nevertheless it was a gripping documentary and wonderful to see a spotlight on a woman making a difference.

*Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer* is a gripping psychological thriller that delves deep into the mind of a master manipulator. The film skillfully explores themes of control, obsession, and deception, keeping the audience on edge with every twist and turn. The performances are intense, with standout portrayals that make the complex characters feel real and dangerous. While the pacing can sometimes feel slow, the intricate plotting and sharp dialogue make up for it. With its dark atmosphere and clever twists, it's a tense, cerebral experience for fans of mind games and suspense. Highly recommended.

Mastermind (2024) is a captivating blend of psychological tension and razor-sharp storytelling. The film follows a complex web of schemes and betrayals, keeping you guessing at every turn. With its smart dialogue and clever plot twists, it demands your full attention and rewards you with edge-of-your-seat suspense.

The cast delivers stellar performances, especially the lead, who perfectly embodies the cunning and charisma of a true mastermind. The pacing is tight, and the direction is stylish, making every scene feel vital. It's a thrilling exploration of power, manipulation, and the price of ambition. If you love intricate plots and mind games, Mastermind is a must-watch.

When I read about this show online, I was all hyped up for it. But from the opening lines to the end of the second episode (I didn't watch the third) it was a constant struggle to understand what was being said. I understand the interview tapes of victims and killers are of poor quality, but surely there is a way to enhance them. I finally put on over-the-ear headphones and turned them way up to hear the dialogue clearly enough to keep watching. Even the rest of the show's audio was bad. It gave me a whole new appreciation for rape victims then and now -- how tragic that they were rarely heard or believed, or worse, blamed. Hats off to Ms. Burgess for doing the work and making a difference.

(Speaking as an aficionado of the true crime genre) I found this documentary to be endearing, educational, and riveting. Dr. Burgess contributed so much to modern Forensic Psychology and her name is rarely spoken in the field.

It also made me re-think my love for the show, "Mindhunter", due to its complete bastardizing of Dr. Burgess' actual lived experience. This woman had 5 children and a husband who became a pilot to ensure that his wife could pursue her high demand career and still be around her small children. That was such an endearing story and the show made her the opposite. (The documentary never discusses the series, however it's pretty obvious that the fictional character is based on her).

10/10 must watch!