Beware the Slenderman

Beware the Slenderman unravels the disturbing story of a violent crime committed by two 12-year-old girls in Wisconsin. It focuses on the 2014 incident where Anissa Weier and Morgan Geyser lured their friend Payton Leutner into the woods and stabbed her 19 times, leaving her for dead. The motive behind this horrific act was their belief in and desire to appease a fictional internet character known as Slender Man.

Director Irene Taylor Brodsky presents a comprehensive look at the case, weaving together interviews with the families of the perpetrators, courtroom footage, and expert analysis. The documentary provides insight into the minds of the young girls involved, their backgrounds, and the factors that may have contributed to their actions. It paints a complex picture of childhood, mental health, and the influence of internet culture on impressionable minds.

The film explores the Slender Man phenomenon in depth. Brodsky traces the origins of this creepypasta character, explaining how it evolved from a simple Photoshop contest entry to a widespread internet myth. The documentary showcases various iterations of Slender Man in online stories, artwork, and videos, illustrating how the character captured the imaginations of many, including Weier and Geyser.

The film also addresses broader issues surrounding the case, such as the blurred line between reality and fantasy for children in the digital age. It raises questions about the impact of constant internet access on developing minds and the challenges parents face in monitoring their children’s online activities. Experts in child psychology, internet culture, and criminal justice provide context and analysis throughout the documentary.

Beware the Slenderman addresses the complexities of the legal proceedings. It covers the decision to try the girls as adults and the potential consequences they face. The film includes footage from police interrogations and courtroom hearings, allowing viewers to form their own opinions about the case and the justice system’s handling of juvenile offenders.