Changeling is a 2008 American mystery crime drama film directed, produced, and scored by Clint Eastwood, with a screenplay by J. Michael Straczynski.
The film is based on real-life events surrounding the 1928 Wineville Chicken Coop murders in California and stars Angelina Jolie as Christine Collins, a mother whose son goes missing.
The story unfolds in 1928 Los Angeles, where single mother Christine Collins returns home from work to find her nine-year-old son, Walter, missing. After months of searching, the LAPD claims to have found him and organizes a public reunion. However, when Christine meets the boy, she realizes he is not her son. Despite her insistence and growing desperation, the police dismiss her claims, labeling her as delusional and unfit. This leads to her being confined to a psychiatric ward after she publicly criticizes the LAPD's incompetence.
The film explores themes of child endangerment, female disempowerment, political corruption, and the treatment of mental health patients. Reverend Gustav Briegleb (John Malkovich) plays a crucial role in advocating for Christine, highlighting the systemic issues within the police force.
Changeling premiered at the 61st Cannes Film Festival on May 20, 2008, and received critical acclaim for its performances and storytelling. It grossed approximately $113 million worldwide. Angelina Jolie's portrayal of Christine earned her several award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
Overall, Changeling is a poignant exploration of a mother's fight for justice against an oppressive system, showcasing both personal and societal struggles in early 20th-century America.