Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile

The 2018 American biographical crime thriller directed by Joe Berlinger portrays the life of notorious serial killer Ted Bundy, played by Zac Efron. Based on the memoirs of Bundy's former girlfriend, Elizabeth Kendall, the story begins in 1969 in Seattle, where law student Ted Bundy meets young secretary and single mother Liz Kendall (Lily Collins). They develop a relationship, and Ted assists Liz in raising her daughter, Molly. By 1974, news reports emerge about mysterious disappearances and murders of young women, including two cases that occurred in broad daylight at Lake Sammamish. A composite sketch of the suspect leads to Ted's arrest in 1975 after a patrol officer stops his car. One of the surviving victims, Carol DaRonch, identifies Ted as her abductor, resulting in his indictment and subsequent trial. Despite Ted's assertions of innocence and Liz's support, he is sentenced to 15 years in prison. Soon after, he is transferred to Colorado to stand trial for the murder of Carol Campbell. Ted decides to represent himself and, taking advantage of the opportunity, escapes from the courthouse but is recaptured six days later. Liz, under the stress of the situation, turns to alcohol and gradually distances herself from Ted. During his second escape, Ted heads to Florida, where he commits new assaults on female students in a university dormitory, leading to the deaths of two women. He is arrested and charged with the murders. In court, Ted once again represents himself, attracting public and media attention. His old acquaintance, Carole Ann Boone (Kaya Scodelario), supports him and even marries him during the trial. Despite all efforts, Ted is found guilty and sentenced to death. In death row, he is visited by Liz, who urges him to confess to relieve her guilt for once reporting him to the police. Ted indirectly confirms his guilt, after which Liz permanently cuts ties with him. The film concludes with archival footage of the real Ted Bundy and information about his execution in the electric chair in 1989.