Boston Strangler

The film suggests that the true story behind the Boston Strangler might never be fully known. Although Albert DeSalvo confessed to the murders and there was strong evidence linking him to the last victim, the film reveals that his confession was likely fabricated as part of a scheme devised by a fellow inmate, George Nassar. Nassar manipulated DeSalvo into confessing with promises of a lucrative book deal, and it appears that DeSalvo’s murder inside prison shortly after speaking to Loretta was orchestrated by Nassar himself, who wanted to silence him. In the real world, and as shown in the film, there was no definitive proof that DeSalvo was the sole killer, and many believe the crimes were committed by multiple individuals or even a copycat killer. The movie emphasizes how the violence against women in Boston was disturbingly pervasive, with some victims possibly killed by different men exploiting the same methods, creating the illusion of a single, terrifying serial killer. Loretta and Jean, driven by their relentless pursuit of the truth, uncovered the flaws in the police investigation and faced significant personal risks, including threats and danger. In the end, while the case was officially closed with DeSalvo’s confession, the real identity of the Boston Strangler remains uncertain—highlighting the tragic and unresolved nature of this horrifying chapter in history. Loretta went on to have a distinguished career in journalism, and Jean continued her investigative work, both hard-fought women showing remarkable resilience in the face of systemic sexism and personal danger. Ultimately, the film leaves viewers with the understanding that the fear and violence against women highlighted in the case are still very present today, making the case not just about one man but a wider societal issue.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44