An Amish Murder (2013)

An Amish Murder Poster

The Amish farming community of Painter’s Mill, Ohio, is shattered when a series of brutal murders leaves the town with a sense of frailty and loss of innocence. Among the most affected by the tragedy was Kate Burkholder, a young girl who survived the terror and, as a result, left the Amish life behind. Fifteen years later, Kate returns to Painter’s Mill as its Chief of Police. Certain she’s come to terms with her past, Kate’s renewed life in her hometown is shattered when a murder investigation triggers deep-seated emotions from her childhood and exposes a dark secret that could destroy her.

Introduction
"An Amish Murder", released in 2013, is a mystery movie directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal and starring Neve Campbell. The film is based on Linda Castillo's very popular book "Sworn to Silence" where Campbell plays a former Amish female who goes back to her roots as the Chief of Police. Campbell's character, Kate Burkholder, deals with the battles of her past as she investigates a series of murders within her Amish hometown.

Plot Summary
"An Amish Murder" opens with Kate Burkholder, now the Chief of Police in the village of Painter's Mill, Ohio, juggles the demands of her professional life with the challenges of her complex individual history. Challenged with a string of dreadful and unusual murders, Kate is quickly involved in an examination that not only presses her to the limits of her capabilities, however also raises uncomfortable memories from her past.

The murders seem connected to a murder case that took place 16 years ago. Kate keeps in mind the awful occasions of the past, an event where she was the sole survivor of a serial killer who was never captured. This previous trauma, in part, led her to leave the Amish community and pursue a profession in police.

Main Characters
The main character, Kate Burkholder, a former member of the Amish neighborhood, tries to navigate through her challenging past and the special challenges that featured bridging the gap between the 2 worlds; the Amish and the English. Neve Campbell outstandingly portrays Kate's psychological intricacy-- her strength, vulnerability, determination, and inner chaos. Other substantial characters include Tomasetti, a state representative and love interest portrayed by Christian Campbell, and T.J. Banks, played by C. Thomas Howell, Kate's loyal, though occasionally hesitant, deputy.

Dispute, Suspense, and Resolution
"An Amish Murder" uses an intriguing mix of suspense, character-driven drama, and introspection. As the murders increase, Kate ends up being more knotted in the complex web of secrets, lies, and betrayals. The ongoing conflict in between her past and present produces tension that fuels the narrative.

As the plot progresses, the audience finds out more about the unsolved murder case. Kate finds an idea linked to the previous crime that shocks her - someone she relied on was included. This discovery brings a dramatic twist to the narrative as Kate faces her past, gathers evidence, and unmasks the real offender. The climax tightens the thriller, as it presses Kate to the edge both mentally and physically.

Conclusion
The movie portrays themes of closure, redemption, and personal development through Kate's character. By the end, Kate discovers peace with her past, comes to terms with her identity, and enhances her relationships. She challenges her worries, solves the gruesome murders, and restores peace to her neighborhood.

"An Amish Murder" successfully integrates aspects of secret, criminal activity, and drama, by creating a powerful narrative that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. The complexities of Amish culture, coupled with the psychological depth of Kate's character, make the movie a compelling watch.

Top Cast

  • Neve Campbell (small)
    Neve Campbell
    Kate Burkholder
  • Noam Jenkins (small)
    Noam Jenkins
    John Tomasetti
  • C. Thomas Howell (small)
    C. Thomas Howell
    Nathan Detrick
  • Christian Campbell (small)
    Christian Campbell
    Jacob Burkholder
  • Jilon VanOver (small)
    Jilon VanOver
    Lucas Holst
  • Irone Singleton (small)
    Irone Singleton
    Glock Nichols
  • Alec McClure (small)
    Alec McClure
    T.J. Banks
  • Linda Kash (small)
    Linda Kash
    Mona
  • Amanda Tilson (small)
    Amanda Tilson
    Young Kate Burkholder
  • Mary Krohnert
    Sarah Burkholder
  • R.D. Reid (small)
    R.D. Reid
    Chuck 'Skid' Skidmore