Jonathan Hoyle

One of the best adaptations to a book, and one of the most compelling stories of the 20th century. The book "Helter Skelter" was written by Prosecuting Attorney Vincent Bugliosi about the Tate-La Bianca murders committed by the Manson Family in August 1969. The movie is ever bit as compelling, with a "Law & Order" type double-phase: the criminal investigation by the police, and the legal indictment and prosecution by the DA's office. I found the court drama to be even more interesting than capture of the criminals. George DiCenzo does a magnificent job portraying Deputy District Attorney Bugliosi, and Steve Railsback was the creepiest ever Charles Manson. A few names were changed from the book for the film. Some were because they were Manson Family members not yet convicted by the time this aired (eg: "Squeaky" became "Freckles", Bruce Davis became "Cisco Budge", etc). Others were changed just because they were not portrayed favorably (Irving Kanerek became "Everett Scoville", etc). But other than that, this was a very faithful adaptation. A note of clarification: This movie was redone in 2004, and is different in that it is presented from the point of view of Linda Kasabian (a Manson Family member who turned them in after the murders), rather than from the point of view of law enforcement (as in the book and the 1976 movie). I find that one inferior to this 1976 version. 5 stars. Highly recommended!