One specific letter in The Knowlton-Pearson Correspondence pretty well sums up where we are today relevant to the most interesting book on this case. Written 35 years after the murders by the son of the prosecuting attorney to the prolific true crime writer who published the first widely read book on the murders we have this:
Knowlton to Pearson October 28, 1930
It was only six years after Studies in Murder was published but over three and a half decades since the Superior Court Trial when Frank Knowlton wrote to Edmund Pearson that:
“The really interesting book About the Borden case has not yet been written,”
He could be saying that today, 128 years later. Knowlton says most of what has been written relates to the circumstances and tries to reason back to find the cause. He posits that it should be a psychological study of Lizzie imagining her life, comprehensive and in depth. (We get a shadow image of that through Parallel Lives – Fall River Historical Society – but even that was limited to her society and not the psychology or dynamics of Lizzie and her household). If a book did deal precisely as Knowlton suggests, we would have a completely different image of this most enigmatic character of American unsolved crime – now evolved into a bloody icon of almost epic status in the occult pop culture.
What we have today is represented by the very latest of Lizzie Borden t.v. docudramas with an emphasis on the paranormal. It’s the “Curse of Lizzie Borden” premiering this date but I do not recommend it nor provide any information to promote it. But like so many that have come before it, it has a “hook”.
“Demons” is the hook with this one. When renewed interest in the paranormal exploded in the early 1990’s, the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast became a recurring focal point for “investigations”. As books, documentaries, films, and t.v. programming grew, so did the need for program content. Productions metastasized and distribution poured into various entertainment programming channels. The caveat is always “entertainment” but the minions of those interested in the occult usually accept the productions as fact. Lizzie Borden, due to her mystique as a person and the case being a classic unsolved crime, was a natural for exploitation. Regurgitation of misinformation has necessitated “hooks” to sustain an audience eager to be thrilled and shriek with things that go bump in the night.
Spin-off websites and podcasts are part of the metastasizing process. Lizzie Andrew Borden’s evolution from the virginal, church-going middle class daughter of a well-to-do banker and real estate investor, has morphed into a crazed axe-wielding psychopath who haunts 92 Second Street. Thus, the parade of paranormal investigators and their followers continue. “If you build it, they will come.” Alas, we live in an America where half believe in the falsities media presents to them. The subject of Lizzie Borden is a simple case in point to this cancer among us.
A new documentary. Filled with the usual misinformation. Partially filmed inside Maplecroft. Airs on the Smithsonian Channel tonight, September 6, 2020, but you can see full episode HERE without commercials. (Take note the image they used of Uncle John V. Morse is NOT the one Cara Robertson used in her book, even though she is in the episode talking as an expert.)
The following video was posted on YouTube just today – January 1, 2019. While all necessary permits have not yet been issued by the City of Fall River for this home to be operated for tours and a B&B, let’s hope when they are this type of marketing keeps it open.
Thousands have flocked to the Second Street home because of the paranormal interest, thus keeping the “murder house” open for thousands of those who have no such interest in things that go bump in the night. No matter, business is business.
So here it is – the first on the 1st. (There are some inaccuracies but that’s okay). Lizzie Borden’s Maplecroft.
In this very recent Town & Country mag interview Chloe Sevigny admits her film “Lizzie” is fiction but it’s what she says about Lizzie the person where she gets it all wrong.
First of all let me say that whenever I ready ANYTHING about Lizzie Borden where it states unequivocably that an “axe” was used (instead of a hatchet), a red flag goes up in my critical, case purist mind. Alas, it was mentioned almost immediately. The trouble with the content of remarks made in this interview is that urban legends are reinforced once again.
Sevigny maintains Lizzie Borden was stifled under her father’s rigid control and had no outlets to vent her frustrations. Truth be told, Lizze at age 32, was just on the cusp of joining the core of that society she so craved. For the past 7 years she had been active in the Congregational Church, taking part in almost all it’s departments, i.e., Fruit and Flower Mission, also Reverent Buck’s Mission where she taught Chinese children, Womens’ Board of the Fall River Hospital, etc. etc. She pretty much came and went as she pleased, entering and existing by the front door as her sister, Emma, did while her father and stepmother used the back door. Lizzie went out frequently to make calls but most of her social engagements involved the Central Congregation Church. And just the year before she had gone a 16 week Grand Tour to Europe. She was no captive of her father’s doman, that’s for sure.
I have repeatedly said Sevigny’s film is soft porn. Just as there are books with hooks there are films produced for targeted audiences. This film is no exception. But I’ll still go see it. And I’ll keep buying those books.
THE best play on Lizzie Borden, bar none, isLizzie Borden Took An Axe by Garrett Heater. So I was particularly pleased to receive this information:
“Hello old friend!
I hope this finds you well!
“Lizzie Borden Took an Axe” wrapped up a 3rd consecutive sold-out run at the Barnes-Hiscock Mansion in Syracuse this October! Some of the cast members and I even squeaked in a trip to the Fall River bed & breakfast!
During the run of the show we decided to create a short skit: “A Borden Family Christmas.” There are plenty of gems in it to keep the most orthodox Bordenophile laughing. We had such a blast making it.
Unlike certain TV documentaries, this one has an expanded cast including Uncle John Morse and Nance O’Neil – real life characters. This “Spindle City.…” musical takes into account the mill workers – something most often ignored in prior plays and T.V. documentaries on the case itself. This is the second musical I’ve heard, the first being “LIzzie Borden the Rock Musical” which has enjoyed a good measure of success.
Uncle John Morse
Nance O’Neil
Judging by this casting call, artistic license once again will run rampant. As with so many TV depictions of the case, there are many fictional characters However, I’m looking forward to the singing and dancing. It is, after all, a musical – – not some 10 part PBS Documentary by Ken Burns or a major theatrical release directed by Martin Scorcese. (sigh)
I’ve been to the Secret Rose Theater in North Hollywood before. Its very small. Can’t imagine the dancing on that small stage but we’ll see. Maybe they go into the audience.
I still maintain that the VERY BEST PLAY on Lizzie Borden is “Lizzie Borden Took An Axe” by Garrett A. Heater, which premiered at the Covey Theate Company in Syracuse, NY, played at BMC Durfee H.S., and continues to be produced in New England. But that was a drama with age appropriate actors.
Blood Relations by Sharon Pollock continues to be the most produced of all Borden-related plays.
I’ll write a review in after seeing Katrina Wood’s production.
Prepare yourself for another grossly fictitious telling of the Lizzie Borden story – this one showing her as having a lesbian affair with the maid, Bridget Sullivan. Read about it HERE.
Aside from the two female stars, everyone else now attached to the project are pretty much unknowns. Sadly, the work of the Director tells us a lot about the genre and qualilty of this yet to be produced film.
When, oh, when will we ever have a true depiction of this most compelling case?
Sigh. And so it goes.
Meanwhile, enjoy this “Then and Now” image depicting the Sitting Room at the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast Museum in Fall River.
My guess is that if there were a living bloodline relative of Lizzie or Emma Borden, Barbara Walters would be interviewing that person on Investigative Discovery’s new show, “American Scandals”, produced by Lincoln Square Productions. The biggest and most popular branch of The Discovery Channel, Investigation Discovery has many cousins, such as Deadly Women where our Miss Lizzie has been featured.
But Barbara’s fort’ is in the interview of the subject or those who are significantly relevant to the subject. So we have Kato Kaelin on OJ; John Ramsey on his son, Burke; Mark David Chapman on John Lennon and – well, you get the idea. (see article)
I have written to Lincoln Square Productions giving a special appeal they do an episode on the biggest and longest lasting American Scandal, Lizzie Borden. Barbara Walters does Lizzie Borden. Let that waft over your cerebellum for a moment. Of course, Babs would have to speak to Michael Martins and Dennis Binette because nobody, repeat nobody, knows Lizzie better than they do. As to the impact on contemporary times the episode would naturally draw in Donald Woods who would be a refreshingly new face. So I’m hoping, just hoping.
Well, here it is folks – what we’ve all been waiting for— A feature length independent film of the Borden story with a terrific script, acted by age-appropriate actors, directed by a talented director with a passion for the case, and, for the very first time – wait for it —— filmed inside the actual house where the murders took place.
The “Defending Lizzie” official website with full history, can be found HERE.
“Defending Lizzie” is based on the screenplay co-written by author Karen Poulsen and Jerry Orzel, and adapted from Ms. Poulsen’s play of the same name. Ms. Poulsen’s play is one of the most authentic I have ever read and yet has at its foundation a most believable Lizzie under pre-murder circumstances. The play is a compelling read and quite thrilling. All characters are carefully crafted from her significant research and the screenplay has maintained authenticity of character, dialog, and plot trajectories. Further, unlike other productions, the story takes on factual occurrences often ignored or portrayed with gross inaccuracies.
This project has recently gained the partnership of the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast Museum and we are all grateful to Lee-ann Wilber, General Manager, and Donald Woods, owner, for recognizing and giving support to this exciting endeavor. The “Wonderful World of Lizzie” and all its orbiting satellites will benefit with the production of this film. (I’m encouraging the new owner of Maplecroft, my friend, Kristee Bates, to allow some special filming of the interior which would be – you got it – another new FIRST!).
Andrew Borden
Because this is an independent film with limited financial resources, a fundraising campaign is being launched on August 4th. Primary funding will be used for transportation, housing and feeding of cast and crew to film on location. The film is scheduled to be released in summer 2016. You can help make this project achieve its destiny by contributing and I will post the link above under “Important Links” when it goes live.
Below is my interview with Jerry Orzel, the Director and co-writer.
Tell us briefly about your background as a filmmaker.
My first endeavor into film was “Revelation 22:22” which was a full feature
zombie film that I made fresh out of college. I wrote and directed a commercial
for a Holiday Inn Express contest that won the People’s Choice award.
I’ve been a freelance videographer / editor for the passed 15 years, and I’m
currently a media producer with the Volusia County School District.
What drew you to Lizzie and why Karen Poulsen’s play?
Karen’s play was well received by the audience and theatre
community. It was designed for minimal scenery, although it took place
in several locations. The characters were compelling and complex. She told the
story in a unique way that I instantly knew it had the perfect foundation for a
movie. The amount of research Karen has done over the past 30 plus years,
shows in the details of the script.
What will be your biggest challenges in filming “Defending Lizzie”?
Locations and wardrobe will be the most challenging, we don’t have the backing
of a large studio and we don’t have all the resources of a big budget production
has, but what I do have is a clever and resourceful wardrobe team lead by Ida
Bailey. She, along with Tosha Williams, made dresses by hand, altered items, and
used their connections with community theaters, assisted in wardrobe for the
trailer. Locations on the other hand have been challenging and fun. I had the
pleasure of getting into some really great places and talking to the owners. Our goal
is to shoot on location in the Lizzie Borden B&B, and use Fall River itself as a
backdrop for Defending Lizzie. Using the B&B along with other locations in Fall
River would add the production value that other movies lack. We would be the
first movie about Lizzie Borden to use the actual house. To me that in itself
would be a huge accomplishment as a filmmaker.
It’s been said the film is 80% factual an 20% artistic license or conjecture. Can you describe what that 20% is?
Not every detail from Lizzie’s life is documented. To get from one historical fact
to the next we used a little artist license, even within the 20% we took has some
facts. One or two characters were combined into one. In doing this we are able
to keep production cost low, and still keep historic elements in the movie. We
created scenes between characters that may not have actually happened but
what they discuss is important to the story and it’s characters.
Which film festivals are you planning to submit Defending Lizzie?
Right now I’m currently just focused on getting the funding needed to get the
movie shot. I’ll submit Defending Lizzie to as many film festivals as I can, and
attend as many of those as I can. It’s fun to watch the audience watch the
movie, you get to see how they react to it, and as a film maker I get see what
works and what didn’t.
Will you be showcasing the film to special groups?
When we get Defending Lizzie done, I would like to hold 2 screenings prior to
hitting the film festivals. One in central Florida around where the cast and crew,
are located, and one in Fall River. I feel it is important to give the community a
chance to see how much of an impact they had in helping make Defending
Lizzie.
Will your film be available on DVD for purchase and if so, when?
It depends if it gets picked up by a distributor, There is the possibility of it being
available thought VOD (Video On Demand) I know Netflix has an independent
division; Redbox, or we’ll self-distribute it ourselves thought Amazon, eBay and
the movie website. Somehow, some way it will be made available.
Can you elaborate on how your fund raising campaign will support this project?
Our Indiegogo campaign launches on August 4th on the 123rd anniversary of the
Borden murders. All funds will go directly into producing Defending Lizzie. We
have a “bare bones” budget, that will able us to shoot 90% of the movie in
Florida, and just get exterior shots of a few locations in Fall River. If we are lucky
enough to get the full amount needed, we would spend about 16 days of
production in Fall River. The budget is as big as it is because that’s what is costs
to make this type of movie. The fact that we are paying our cast and crew,
separates us from other independent films. I strongly believe in compensating
everyone that is working on this production. They have a talent whether it’s in
front of the camera or behind, and without them we have no movie.
Aside from Lizzie, who do you consider the most compelling character in the Borden case?
Andrew Borden. It is interesting to me that a man would build himself up from
basically nothing, and become a successful business man then live as frugal as
he did. I can understand not wanting a flashy lifestyle, but not to even have
indoor plumbing is really penny-pinching.
What would you like to say about the film or the Borden case given this opportunity?
Defending Lizzie will be in a class all of its own when it comes to telling the
Lizzie Borden story. At its heart, it’s a murder mystery and the Borden case
could not be a better story to tell. Defending Lizzie will be what movies used to
be like, a story is driven by characters, an interesting plot, and of course –
mystery.
Do you think Lizzie was guilty?
Not sure, I’m on the fence with that. I know that as the director, I want to show
Lizzie had another side. She has always been portrayed as a heartless, selfish, little brat. There is another side of Lizzie, a side of her that other movies
haven’t shown, a side that will make you feel sorry for her if she truly is
innocent of the murders. Lizzie, in this story, is walking a fine line between being
innocent and guilty
Defending Lizzie – Finally, a feature length, theatrical movie – – – filmed in the right place.
This is such a wonderfully written play, I wish I could see it again….with the same cast from 2011. ( The below image was swiped from Garrett’s Facebook page).
Lizzie Borden Took an Axe
Production in Fall River, MA August 2011
A big THANK YOU to all of our supporters on Kickstarter who pledged over $3,500 to send our cast to Fall River, MA where we performed the show twice in Lizzie’s hometown! Here we are (sans Kate Huddleston, our wonderful Abby Borden) outside the actual home where the murders occurred, which is now a delightful bed and breakfast! We were also able to view vintage Borden artifacts at the Fall River Historical Society including the blood-stained bedspread from the guest room where Abby was murdered, her severed false hair piece, the hatchet head which is still considered the murder weapon, and many authentic photos of the home and it’s infamous inhabitants. Our cast had a truly wonderful time and you helped give Covey Theatre its first official tour! Thanks again!!!
Tattered Fabric: Fall River’s Lizzie Borden Review by Faye Musselman
The play delivers absolutely all it says in the program. Most all voice-overs were lifted verbatim directly from inquest, preliminary or trial testimony. The play manages to interject the incest theory in a way that will give you pause for re-consideration if you’ve never bought into it before.
What I particularly liked was that the characters, except for Uncle John Morse, were age appropriate. Even Carmen Viviano-Grafts bore a striking resemblance to Emma Borden from the most known photo of her. She played Emma with just the right mixture of loyal and nurturing sister coupled with what we know to be Emma’s own fierce dislike of her stepmother.
Garrett Heater, writer/director, did a very, VERY good job interjecting the more known theories such as a possible daliance twixt Lizzie and Dr. Bowen. The later played by Jordan Glaski was excellent in conveying his concern for Lizzie,while suspending your belief in his actually BEING a doctor. His portrayal was consistent in the professionalism of his character but was subtle enough in keeping you guessing about their true relationship – again a credit to writing as well as delivery.
Kate Huddleston played Abby Borden and her portrayal was reminiscent of Abby’s character in the 1975 Legend of Lizzie Borden made-for-tv movie. Often shrill, always unappealing, a person not well read on the case would believe she was just as portrayed. Poor Abby gets a bad rap because there’s nothing to validate she was anything but kind to those girls for as long as possible. Kate does a terrific job in showing her loyalty to her husband while still conveying her strong interest in the legacy of his money. We can understand her, we can even sympathize with the burdens she endured, but we do not like her. Kudos to Kate! Not an easy role.
The primary character, of course, is Lizzie and her part was played beautifully by Katharine Gibson. Through dialog we understand why she hated Abby, through acting and writing we are never certain as to whether or not she did it. Her particular acting chops, I think, came out when her father wants to take her “down to the basement”, an obvious location and metaphor for sexual abuse. We know she is 32, we know her father dominates. But Ms. Gibson does such a wonderful job we find it totally credible that it just very well may have happened that way – thus, explaining the rage of the act, if you choose to believe Lizzie guilty. Katharine was the obvious standout performer of the cast but I tend to think their talents fed into her own.
The set was minimalistic but seemed to be so much more because of the staging. (Thus, less is more.) The use of lighting was exceptional during the two periods of time of the slaying. Bright red lighting as the backdrop to intense music, leaving much to the imagination and leaving the audience to imagine an intruder, Lizzie or an unnamed other. Totally plausible. Totally believable. Strong stuff and very well executed.
My favorite part of the entire play was a monologue delivered by “Andrew” in the second act. Played by Bernard Kaplan he speaks of “what your mother would have wanted for you” (meaning their real mother) in a suspended state with Lizzie and Emma frozen on stage. The writing here was absolutely terrific. It had me riveted throughout and stayed with me for days. In fact, as I write this, I am still haunted by it. Beautiful writing, Garrett, and so well spoken by Mr. Kaplan. “Andrew” also did a very believable job when putting his lascivious hands on Lizzie and first coercing her, then demanding of her that she go “down to the basement”. Not an easy thing to do and it could have come out corny or clumsy but Bernard did it very well.
Beth Schmidt played Maggie with a most believable accent and was quite convincing; Susan Blumer made a good Churchill; C. J. Parsons equally as good as John Morse and Jodie Baum gave us shades of Alice we may not have thought of before. All in all, the entire cast was excellent. The set was excellent. The use of lighting and music was superb, but the writing – the writing which weaves so well the many threads of this tale was absolutely exceptional!!
I’ve seen several plays on the Borden case, including musicals, including a ballet, and so far, this is now my very favorite of all I’ve seen. I would see it again. And again. And if YOU haven’t – you should. Absolutely.
Quite an ambitious endeavor here – doubt its fundraiser will yield the $100,000 goal. The skulls pictured are NOT those of Andrew and Abby Borden, but were on display at the short-lived “40 Whacks Museum” in Salem. I suspect the merchandise comes from that failed operation. However, if this project were to become a reality, I certainly would attend a performance.
Nance O’Neil (October 8, 1874 – February 7, 1965) was an American actress of stage and cinema of the early 20th century.
She transitioned successfully from the theatre to silent movies and on to sound movies into the early 1930’s.
Nance O’Neil was associated with Lizzie Borden from 1904-1905, and it is often asserted or speculated they were lovers although no credible evidence of any sort has ever surfaced to validate that claim.
The years 1930 and 1931 were very productive film years for Miss O’Neil. She worked with some very well known, even legendary, actors, such as Barbara Stanwyck, Basil Rathbone, Anita Louise, Zasu Pitts and Edgar Kennedy. She also acted with a young Lawrence Olivier in Westward Passage, one of her last films made in 1932.
It was quite unusual for a Broadway tragedienne of the early 1900’s to have such a long career in transitioning to movies. O’Neil must have had a terrific agent or good connections. Or perhaps, because she had been such a big star on the stage, producers thought her name would be an added draw to audiences.
I am offering here three films of Nance O’Neil from the 1930’s on DVD:
The Secret Service (1931) with Richard Dix. I just loved this movie. It holds up after 80 years! Think of Richard Dix as Agent 007. Nance plays his mother in this exciting film full of dramatic tension and surprises! Easy to see why Dix was such a popular actor aside from his Westerns.
I must say she looks like a man wearing a wig in this film, particularly in this scene.
Ladies or Leisure (1930) directed by Frank Capra is a wonderfully engrossing drama starring Barbara Stanwyck. Jerry Strong (Ralph Graves, Submarine) is the wealthy son of stuffy but permissive parents who allow Jerry to follow his ambition to be a painter. When he hires party girl Kay Arnold (Barbara Stanwyck, Double Indemnity) to be a model for one of his paintings, the two fall in love despite their obvious differences. But eventually, class distinctions push Kay away back toward her old life, one just shy of prostitution. Directed by Frank Capra (Mr. Smith Goes to Washington), LADIES OF LEISURE was also one of Stanwyck’s first roles and the one that made her a star. Newly remastered.
Nance O’Neil plays the mother of Jerry Strong and has some terrific scenes with super closeups. In one she trys to convince “Kay” to let go of her love for the betterment of his life. It is quite touching and highly dramatic. One can easily see O’Neil’s acting chops in this film.
Both Stanwyck and O’Neil have been perceived as lesbians. It’s true Stanwyck had an abortion at 15, married two times. Her second husband, actor Robert Taylor, was also rumored to be Gay. That marriage was arranged by Louis B. Mayor of MGM when both were stars there.
In what seemed like an inappropriate “thank you dear for seeing my point” kiss, Nance plants one smack on Barbara’s lips. It almost looked like it to Babs unexpectedly, and she gently seems to push O’Neil back.
As a loves story, this movie holds up, not corny at all.
Floradora Girl has a similar theme as Ladies of Leisure only this time the girl wants to get rich. Here again, O’Neil plays the wise woman to set the girl on the moral high ground. This movie stars Marion Davies and was produced through her film company established by William Randolph Hearst to showcase her stardom. Perhaps O’Neil met the august Hearst during this time.
Yep, the 1890’s and early 1900’s were the American Theater’s heyday, and the 1930’s were Hollywood’s Golden Years. And Nance O’Neil rode the crest of the former and was still afloat for the latter.
EACH IS $20.00 OR $45.00 FOR ALL THREE! IF INTERESTED, EMAIL ME AT:
phaye@outlook.com
POSTAGE WILL DEPEND UPON LOCATION AND BUYER’S PREFERENCE FOR DELIVERY.
While the poor reviews and commentary on the gawd-awful Lifetime Movie Channel’s Lizzie Borden Took An Axe (see myearlier post) starring Christina Ricci continue, I have to report on a most singular and obscure thing they DID get right: The picture above the sofa where Andrew Borden met his fate.
(Image above of the crime scene taken late afternoon of August 4, 1892, from my personal collection of second generation photos.)
You can see the picture here, actually a black and white print of a steel engraving. Here are a couple more images:
This image was also taken on August 4rh, 1892, after the sofa had been removed.
There never was any mention of this picture in any of the source documents, newspapers or subsequent books written on the case. Apparently, never worthy of citing, it wasn’t nearly as notable as the sofa – which has been referred to as a “horsehair sofa of the Civil War era”. But the picture has never raised an eyebrow nor an inkling of curiosity. What that picture was remained unknown for 108 years.
In early 2000, Lizzie Borden expert Leonard Rebello, a Fall River native and author of Lizzie Borden Past & Present (1999) conducted some in-depth research and discovered it was a steel engraving called “The Village Elms – Sunday Morning in New England” by a rather prolific painter, Albert Fitch Bellows (1829-1883). For the first time ever, EVER, the “picture above the sofa” was identified in print with the publication of the April 2000 issue (Vol. VII, #2) of the most excellent The Lizzie Borden Quarterly published by Martin F. Bertolet. Lizzie Borden enthusiasts who subscribed to this august publication, were the first to learn of this discovery. To my knowledge, there has never been any other feature article or any reference to this engraving – in context with the Lizzie Borden case – ever written about since. A print of this engraving has hung above the sofa at the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast since Mr. Rebello’s discovery.
Albert Fitch Bellows
Here it is below:
One can readily see this exact picture hanging above the sofa in the Lifetime Movie Channel’s film which first aired on January 25, 2014, nearly 14 years after the identification of the what and who first came to light.
So who, I ponder, in the production of this pitiful portrayal of the case was responsible for bringing that piece of historical accuracy to the film? Who did the research? How did they learn of the picture? (Perhaps it was Lee-ann Wilber, manager of the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast, who had been contacted about “borrowing” the sofa). Nonetheless, they got the sofa wrong but the picture is correct. They got most everything wrong but they got the picture right. A most obscure inclusion with absolutely no relevancy to the case itself. If they troubled to research that and incorporate it into the film, why leave out so much that WAS relevant?
While it can now be said they got something right, that singular and obscure find still lacks sufficiency for redemption of all they got wrong. Albert Fitch Bellows. The Village Elms And now you know.
Colored version of “The Village Elms – Sunday Morning in New England”
Final note: I’d be willing to bet it never hung at “Maplecroft”. 😉
Poor Lee-ann Wilber, manager of the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast. She and her staff are left with the mop up duties due to all the misinformation and urban legends contained in the Lifetime Movie Channel’s Lizzie Borden Took An Axe, starring Chrsitina Ricci.
As I predicted, awful production has only served to perpetuate the myths and untruths about Miss Borden and the case itself. Too bad the LMN’s target audience are breeders more than readers.
“Lizzie Borden film: A Hatchet Job” – by Deborah Allard, Fall River Herald News, interviewed local Lizzie Borden affcionados and moi. Read it HERE.
Richard Behrens, who authored Lizzie Borden, Girl Detective – a clever and astute non-fiction book, posted this on a chat forum – and I completely agree:
“There must have been a corporate meeting at Lifetime where they planned everything exactly because they were aiming for a specific audience. If the women wore hats, the 20-something Twilight fans would think it’s old fashioned. If they used period music, they won’t download the soundtrack from iTunes. If they cast a teenager-looking actress, the teenagers in the audience will assume she is a teenager. If they show stuff about Fall River and the textile mills, they’ll flip the channels to another station. If they don’t show Lizzie hacking up bodies, the movie will be boring. In short, no ambiguity, no subtlety, no grown-up issues. Let’s make a movie about a 32 year old woman who is really a trouble teenager who wants to smash open people’s skulls like they do in the zombie and vampire movies.”
Historians: ‘Lizzie Borden’ film a hatchet job
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
Local historians and Lizzie experts hated the rock music, Lizzie Borden’s wardrobe and the absence of several main characters.
Leonard Rebello, a local historian and the author of “Lizzie Borden: Past & Present,” said it was “difficult to watch.”
“It leaves myths and legends for a new generation,” Rebello said.
The biggest historical inaccuracy, according to Rebello, was when officials performed an autopsy on Andrew and Abby Borden on the dining room table, after the couple had been bludgeoned to death by an ax (actually, a hatchet).
“That did not happen at all,” Rebello said.
The autopsies were completed in the house, but Rebello said they were performed on undertaker boards. Andrew Borden was in the living room, and Abby Borden in the dining room.
There were other historical errors, as well, such as when Lizzie Borden burned her dress in a cauldron outside for all to see.
Rebello said it was hard to watch after spending six years researching the facts of the Borden murders and case.
“Overall, it was not very well done,” Rebello said.
The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast, the actual site of the Borden murders at 92 Second St., is in “damage control” mode, according to curator and manager Lee Ann Wilber.
She said she and her tour staff will be “setting everyone straight” for years to come, separating fact from fiction and rumor from truth.
The film did spark a renewed interest in the Borden murder mystery. Wilber said the B&B has seen an increase in visitors all weekend. Each hourly tour on Sunday was attended by 15 to 20 curious visitors.
Michael Martins, curator of the Fall River Historical Society, which displays the largest collection of Borden artifacts and crime scene items, was put off by the film.
“The film was inaccurate in all aspects — from historical facts, to costuming and sets,” Martins said.
Martins said the society has for years been at the forefront of researching the Borden story, uncovering new material and presenting that material to the public.
Martins and assistant curator Dennis Binette recently published “Parallel Lives: A Social History of Lizzie A. Borden in Fall River,” which shed new light on Borden and the murders.
“It is unfortunate that they chose not to utilize the resources available here,” Martins said. “Visitors repeatedly tell us that that is one of the things that sets the Historical Society apart — fact, not fiction.
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
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Submitted PhotoLifetime’s “Lizzie Borden Took An Ax” on Jan. 25, starring Christina Ricci as the famous Fall River murder suspect.
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
Local historians and Lizzie experts hated the rock music, Lizzie Borden’s wardrobe and the absence of several main characters.
Leonard Rebello, a local historian and the author of “Lizzie Borden: Past & Present,” said it was “difficult to watch.”
“It leaves myths and legends for a new generation,” Rebello said.
The biggest historical inaccuracy, according to Rebello, was when officials performed an autopsy on Andrew and Abby Borden on the dining room table, after the couple had been bludgeoned to death by an ax (actually, a hatchet).
“That did not happen at all,” Rebello said.
The autopsies were completed in the house, but Rebello said they were performed on undertaker boards. Andrew Borden was in the living room, and Abby Borden in the dining room.
There were other historical errors, as well, such as when Lizzie Borden burned her dress in a cauldron outside for all to see.
Rebello said it was hard to watch after spending six years researching the facts of the Borden murders and case.
“Overall, it was not very well done,” Rebello said.
The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast, the actual site of the Borden murders at 92 Second St., is in “damage control” mode, according to curator and manager Lee Ann Wilber.
She said she and her tour staff will be “setting everyone straight” for years to come, separating fact from fiction and rumor from truth.
The film did spark a renewed interest in the Borden murder mystery. Wilber said the B&B has seen an increase in visitors all weekend. Each hourly tour on Sunday was attended by 15 to 20 curious visitors.
Michael Martins, curator of the Fall River Historical Society, which displays the largest collection of Borden artifacts and crime scene items, was put off by the film.
“The film was inaccurate in all aspects — from historical facts, to costuming and sets,” Martins said.
Martins said the society has for years been at the forefront of researching the Borden story, uncovering new material and presenting that material to the public.
Martins and assistant curator Dennis Binette recently published “Parallel Lives: A Social History of Lizzie A. Borden in Fall River,” which shed new light on Borden and the murders.
“It is unfortunate that they chose not to utilize the resources available here,” Martins said. “Visitors repeatedly tell us that that is one of the things that sets the Historical Society apart — fact, not fiction.
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
0
Zoom
Submitted PhotoLifetime’s “Lizzie Borden Took An Ax” on Jan. 25, starring Christina Ricci as the famous Fall River murder suspect.
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
Local historians and Lizzie experts hated the rock music, Lizzie Borden’s wardrobe and the absence of several main characters.
Leonard Rebello, a local historian and the author of “Lizzie Borden: Past & Present,” said it was “difficult to watch.”
“It leaves myths and legends for a new generation,” Rebello said.
The biggest historical inaccuracy, according to Rebello, was when officials performed an autopsy on Andrew and Abby Borden on the dining room table, after the couple had been bludgeoned to death by an ax (actually, a hatchet).
“That did not happen at all,” Rebello said.
The autopsies were completed in the house, but Rebello said they were performed on undertaker boards. Andrew Borden was in the living room, and Abby Borden in the dining room.
There were other historical errors, as well, such as when Lizzie Borden burned her dress in a cauldron outside for all to see.
Rebello said it was hard to watch after spending six years researching the facts of the Borden murders and case.
“Overall, it was not very well done,” Rebello said.
The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast, the actual site of the Borden murders at 92 Second St., is in “damage control” mode, according to curator and manager Lee Ann Wilber.
She said she and her tour staff will be “setting everyone straight” for years to come, separating fact from fiction and rumor from truth.
The film did spark a renewed interest in the Borden murder mystery. Wilber said the B&B has seen an increase in visitors all weekend. Each hourly tour on Sunday was attended by 15 to 20 curious visitors.
Michael Martins, curator of the Fall River Historical Society, which displays the largest collection of Borden artifacts and crime scene items, was put off by the film.
“The film was inaccurate in all aspects — from historical facts, to costuming and sets,” Martins said.
Martins said the society has for years been at the forefront of researching the Borden story, uncovering new material and presenting that material to the public.
Martins and assistant curator Dennis Binette recently published “Parallel Lives: A Social History of Lizzie A. Borden in Fall River,” which shed new light on Borden and the murders.
“It is unfortunate that they chose not to utilize the resources available here,” Martins said. “Visitors repeatedly tell us that that is one of the things that sets the Historical Society apart — fact, not fiction.
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
0
Zoom
Submitted PhotoLifetime’s “Lizzie Borden Took An Ax” on Jan. 25, starring Christina Ricci as the famous Fall River murder suspect.
“Lizzie Borden Took an Ax,” at least when it comes to those who know the intricate details of the crime and case, presented glaring historical inaccuracies from start to finish.
Local historians and Lizzie experts hated the rock music, Lizzie Borden’s wardrobe and the absence of several main characters.
Leonard Rebello, a local historian and the author of “Lizzie Borden: Past & Present,” said it was “difficult to watch.”
“It leaves myths and legends for a new generation,” Rebello said.
The biggest historical inaccuracy, according to Rebello, was when officials performed an autopsy on Andrew and Abby Borden on the dining room table, after the couple had been bludgeoned to death by an ax (actually, a hatchet).
“That did not happen at all,” Rebello said.
The autopsies were completed in the house, but Rebello said they were performed on undertaker boards. Andrew Borden was in the living room, and Abby Borden in the dining room.
There were other historical errors, as well, such as when Lizzie Borden burned her dress in a cauldron outside for all to see.
Rebello said it was hard to watch after spending six years researching the facts of the Borden murders and case.
“Overall, it was not very well done,” Rebello said.
The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast, the actual site of the Borden murders at 92 Second St., is in “damage control” mode, according to curator and manager Lee Ann Wilber.
She said she and her tour staff will be “setting everyone straight” for years to come, separating fact from fiction and rumor from truth.
The film did spark a renewed interest in the Borden murder mystery. Wilber said the B&B has seen an increase in visitors all weekend. Each hourly tour on Sunday was attended by 15 to 20 curious visitors.
Michael Martins, curator of the Fall River Historical Society, which displays the largest collection of Borden artifacts and crime scene items, was put off by the film.
“The film was inaccurate in all aspects — from historical facts, to costuming and sets,” Martins said.
Martins said the society has for years been at the forefront of researching the Borden story, uncovering new material and presenting that material to the public.
Martins and assistant curator Dennis Binette recently published “Parallel Lives: A Social History of Lizzie A. Borden in Fall River,” which shed new light on Borden and the murders.
“It is unfortunate that they chose not to utilize the resources available here,” Martins said. “Visitors repeatedly tell us that that is one of the things that sets the Historical Society apart — fact, not fiction.
UPDATE: Oh my. The “national” audience really tears this up. Gotta read THIS.
That Lifetime Movie Channel rendition of Lizzie Borden I’ve been harping about was everything I expected – and more. I wasn’t expecting a comedy. I was doing llttle “hash” marks on a piece of paper everytime they got something wrong be it dialog, scenery, who said what, etc. I stopped at 132 in the first hour. Seriously.
The soundtrack really made it seem like it was an intended comedy. I don’t mind when 2 real life characters are combined into one, i.e., Alice Russell was also Mrs. Churchill, but when they take an Officer Harrington and have his words coming from an Inspector Fleet, and when the secretive dress burning is done outside and night in full view of neighbors…..oh hell, I just can’t go on, except to say the schmaltzy ending wherein Lizzie confesses to Emma by an insidious, prolonged whispering in her ear was about as sophomoric cinema as you can get. Only those who don’t get out much to movies would think it a stunning ending.
Critics have panned this production and I am in agreement with most of what they say here:
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY LIZZIE BORDEN ITEMS FOR SALE ON EBAY (SEE BOTTOM OF THIS POST).
Sex, gore and schlock rock ratings. The Lifetime Movie Network airing of Lizzie Borden Took an Axe should have good ratings tonight (January 25th) – at least in the New England market. I find people here on the west coast, either haven’t heard about it, don’t care, or wouldn’t watch it anyway. The current Lizzie Borden hype is more regional and of more interest (as to the accuracy of this production) by case experts than it is to the general public.
When anything airs about Charlie Manson and the Manson murders, it gets huge ratings here in SoCal because SoCal is where it happened. People in Fall River don’t care that much about it. And most of them in Fall River don’t care about Lizzie Borden. It’s the sex and gore that attracts. Always does. Can you say “Jody Arias”?
However, I’m still kaphitzed about how this kind of crap perpetuates all the myths and misinformation and I’m certain this airing will move to the front of the line tonight in that regard. I hope when it begins showing there is a caveat in front of the Title feed that says: “Any resemblance to the real Lizzie Borden or consistency of facts is purely unintentional.” LOL
I think the curators at the Fall River Historical Society have shown their usual professional restraint and class in not seeking out to be interviewed in connection with this grossly inaccurate production. Another person, however, has aggressively pursued being quoted or interviewed and is planning to strategically place herself in a local Fall River bar which will be airing the program and where the local print media will be showing up to interview customers – again planning to be one of them. . Some people just LOVE getting their names in the paper – it serves to self-validate who they are and their own self-worth. Sad.
One of my friends in Fall River said: “Faye, I’ll Skype you and you can watch it with me on my TV here 3 hours earlier!” I said, No, that I was gonna record it and wouldn’t be near a TV anyway between 7 an 10:30 tonight.
Anyway, as to the quality and accuracy of LMN’s rendition of the Lizzie Borden case, I don’t need to see two trains going head to head on the same rail to know the result. Excuse them, Lizzie, for know not what they do. Uhhh. Scratch that. They know exactly what they’re doing. 😉
I, myself, am capitalizing on the thousands of Google searches that will undoubtedly follow the airing so as to sell off some of my overflow collection on eBay. HERE, HERE, and HERE.
“Lizzie Borden Took An Axe” (original title, eh?) airs on the Lifetime Movie Network on January 25th.
In collaboration with the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast (who were NOT consulted on the content of the production) will be hosting the winner of the LMN’s contest. The contest includes transportation!
Click HERE to enter! Be sure to scroll down for the video featuring the players.
Christina is on a multi-media blitz this week promoting the movie, something most actors have written into their contracts when they sign on for a movie.. She’s been on all major networks and the buzz is pretty strong in the trades and blogsites. Her career arch would indicate this is a come-back role for her as her career has been pretty stagnant of late. Just married last October, Christina – assuming this broadcast gets high ratings – will be on a roll. And so will the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast!!
The Lifetime TV network is giving away a free weekend to the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast to promote the premiere of its new film “Lizzie Borden Took an Ax.”
The film, set to air on Jan. 25 at 8 p.m., will be the first movie about the Borden murders since Elizabeth Montgomery donned a checked shirtwaist and wielded a hatchet as Lizzie in “The Legend of Lizzie Borden,” also a made-for-TV movie, in 1975.
Viewers who watched Montgomery portray Lizzie Borden, the Fall River woman accused of murdering her father and stepmother with a hatchet in 1892, will find some striking differences in the new version starring Christina Ricci.
The new film, like the older flick, will establish Lizzie’s guilt and offer the “how” in the enduring mystery. The real crime, however, remains unsolved. Lizzie was acquitted of the murders in 1893. There were no other suspects. Some speculate that the court pronounced her not guilty simply because they believed a woman could not possibly have committed such a heinous act.
Viewers of “Lizzie Borden Took an Ax” should expect a more risque film than the 1975 version, with modern elements including a sassy Lizzie and close-ups of the gruesome murder scenes, as evidenced by viewing the previews on Lifetime’s website.
Lee Ann Wilber, curator of the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast, said she “won’t pass judgment until I see” the film.
Wilber said Lifetime sought no help or insight from the bed and breakfast when making the movie, which was filmed in Nova Scotia in the summer of 2013.
The new film, however, factual or not, will likely stir the already simmering pot of Borden fans and add new ones to the mix — likely not a bad thing for the B&B or local tourism.
Wilber said Lifetime purchased a two-night stay from the bed and breakfast for its free weekend sweepstakes. Online visitors to mylifetime.com can enter the contest by voting whether they believe Lizzie is “innocent” or “guilty.” They may enter up to 15 times per day.
The sweepstakes will run until Jan. 15. A winner will be chosen by random drawing and be notified on or before Jan. 22.
The prize is worth approximately $4,000 and will include a two-night stay for two at the Lizzie Borden B&B, the site where the actual murders took place, airfare, and a $1,500 gift card good for meals and ground transportation.
Someone messaged me on Facebook: “Faye, you are helping to promote this awful movie by posting about it.” Oh no, I’m not. I’m doing blogs about it, I’m commentinig on internet chat rooms etc. about it, I’m responding to the buzz that’s already out there giving a totally different POV. My POV is based on decades of research, interviews, published papers, speaking engagements, case related collectibles, etc. I want my opinions dispersed out there in the world wide web. Hopefully when the hype heightens and people Google about Ricci, the film, Lizzie, Fall River, etc., they will have my POV to ponder rather than simply accepting as truth the horseshit they will have viewed. Hopefully, I will help to slow the resultant predictable tide of misinformation that perpetuates the myth of Lizzie Borden.
The Lifetime Movie Channel-Christina Ricci rendition of the Lizzie Borden story has her (Lizzie) sneaking out of the house days before the murder to attend a wild party. (Thump. <–sound of me banging my head against the wall).
The script apparently establishes as fact Lizzie & Emma were surrogate wives to Andrew until he married the stepmother. (Thump. Thump).
Ricci, so says the article, did extensive research into her role. (Thumpity, thump, thump).
I’d type more but I can’t see thru the blood of my eyeballs.
It’s only been recently that the Fall River Chamber of Commerce has publicly acknowleged the revenue and residual advantages of touting their most famous citizen, Lizzie Borden. Perhaps it’s taken them that long to figure out thousands have trekked to Fall River for one purpose only: To visit the murder house at 92 Second Street. It’s the same gravitational pull that feeds tourism in Dallas at Dealy Plaza. And once in Fall River they proceed to only 3 other locations before getting back on the highway towards Newport or Boston. Those 3 sites are: The French Street stately home called “Maplecroft” in the Highlands where Lizzie lived the other half of her life, the Fall River Historical Society to view part of their world’s largest collection relative to the case and Lizzie herself, and finally to Oak Grove Cemetery where she is buried. It’s usually the repeat visitors or regional residents that discover Fall River has a little more to offer on a day’s visit, i.e., some great restaurants, Battleship Cove, great vistas overlooking the Taunton River and…and…and…well, the hidden John Mann muralson the walls of the auditorium at the old Matthew Kuss Middle School at 217 Rock Street. Thing is you can’t get to them.
Well, now comes along another TV movie on Lizzie Borden starring Christina Ricci. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Christina Ricci would be appropriate casting as Lizzie Borden if Justin Bieber played Andrew Borden. If that doesn’t tell you right off the bat about how accurate this Lifetime Movie Production will be….will read the followingNew York Times article and determine for yourself.
The only good thing is that whenever the media hypes Lizzie, there are spikes in the revenue for the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast – and Fall River in general. I’m all for that. Fiction or Fact.
Uncle John Morse
photo credit Joey Razda
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Tattered Fabric: Fall River's Lizzie Borden 