(USA/2008/directed by Marina Zenovich)

Reopening a case that has inspired curiosity, controversy and, perhaps above all, confusion for over 30 years, this is a meticulous exploration of the circumstances that led up to – and the circus that followed – Polanski’s conviction on charges of unlawful intercourse with a minor. Unearthing a treasure trove of rare footage from the past and combining it with new interviews for which Zenovich was granted unprecedented access has brought a startling new clarity to these events – and their still-continuing aftermath – which have long been clouded by myth and misconception. More than a great piece of detective work, this is an essential and eye-opening discourse on the nature of celebrity culture in America. Cannes and Sundance Film Festivals. (99 min.)

“A mesmerizing portrait of the director as acclaimed artist and tortured human being.”    -Justin Chang, Variety