Michelle Danner

Most viewers of the film Miranda’s Victim will have at least passing knowledge of what Miranda’s Rights are. On numerous police procedural programs, arresting officers inform criminal suspects, “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law,” and so on. Since 1966, U.S. law, as decided by the Supreme Court, has required this warning to protect potential defendants’ Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights to counsel. However, I’d venture to say that few of us, include me here, know much, if anything, of the events that became the catalyst for this notification. Now, in “Miranda’s Victim, director Michelle Danner details the events leading to this landmark ruling, that vital right to remain silent to avoid possible self-incrimination without legal representation present.

Miranda’s Victim is a riveting drama about the real-life rape victim Trish Weir, played by the wonderfully talented Abigail Breslin, who gave an inspiring performance through waves of sexism at a time in the 60’s when most women stayed silent on abuse, and most men saw rape victims as a disgrace or as fabricators.

Director Michelle Danner brings audiences the story of the emotionally wrought 1963 court case that led to the institution of Miranda Rights. Told through the eyes of the brave young woman Trish Weir, Miranda’s Victim is a harrowing story of the flawed justice system and a reclamation of power.