This being based on a true story, the filmmakers weren't permitted handy movie aids like shock surprises or a violent ending. Which hampers this retelling of the Louisiana woman who was unknowingly videotaped by a pervy neighbor. She's peeped, and peeped, and peeped again. Even without knowing the real-life events, we know it's the overly-helpful guy across the street. But all the first hour of the film contains is his spying and good deeds. We get the point after a half hour, and there are no real other avenues for this to go. Finally the point is reached where he tips his hand, so the victim checks out the guys house while he's away. Sure enough, videotapes are discovered featuring her and others in the buff. I don't know if this next part is accurtate or not, but having to sit through the Barney Fife investigation by the slackass police department was pretty grueling. Jr. high school comments made by one cop, while another seems to side with the peeper. Not to mention the church, which all but excuses his wrong-doings. Surprisingly, the guy confesses to the cops, cops a plea, end of movie. It seemed more sensationalistic in the press than within this film. A better-than-usual cast for a Lifetime Network film helps, with the gorgeous Harmon, effectively creepy Sheridan, and journeyman Midkiff. But they all---especially Harmon---belong in features as opposed to this in one ear, out the other fodder.
Review of Video Voyeur: The Susan Wilson Story
Video Voyeur: The Susan Wilson Story
(2002 TV Movie)
incomplete melodrama...
3 December 2005
Warning: Spoilers