Dir: Susan Marks
USA / 2010 / 70 mins
Print Source: doll.documentary@gmail.com
Web: www.ofdollsandmurder.com/
John Waters narrates this absorbing documentary which focuses on the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death; dollhouse dioramas that merge the gothic and kitsch. Created by Frances Glessner Lee in the 1930s to teach detectives, these dioramas offered unique depictions of crime scenes. In an age where policing was a ‘man’s job’, Frances carved herself a niche as an educator. Known as ‘The Patron Saint of Forensic Science’, her work still informs teaching investigators today.
Tracing the popular interest in the macabre, murder and forensic science, this perfectly realised film looks not just at Frances’ work but also at TV shows like CSI (who produced a season based on the Nutshell Studies) and recent developments in the training of detectives including a trip to the Body Farm. Of Dolls And Murder examines our cultural fascination with violent crimes and the tools that may help solve them.
Limited tickets available for the Sunday 24th screening.
Purchase your tickets early!