In the aftermath of the tragic murder of 21-year-old British backpacker Grace Millane during her solo holiday in New Zealand, the nation was left reeling, grappling with the disturbing realities of violence against women.
The emotional documentary, The Lie — coming to NEON at the end of May — delves deep into this harrowing case, shedding light on the events surrounding Millane’s untimely death and the unsettling attitudes it brought forward.
Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Helena Coan, The Lie meticulously examines the chilling details of the case that shook New Zealand to its core. At the heart of the documentary lies the trial of Jesse Kempson, who was found guilty of Millane’s murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Kempson’s defence, centred around the notion of “rough sex gone wrong,” serves as a chilling reminder of the dangerous narratives spread in cases of violence against women.
Through a thorough mix of interviews, CCTV footage and police tapes, Coan constructs a timeline of the events leading up to Millane’s tragic death in December 2018. The documentary lays bare the harrowing sequence of events, from Millane’s initial encounter with Kempson on a Tinder date to the grim discovery of her body buried in West Auckland’s Waitākere Ranges.
One of the most chilling revelations, among others, unearthed by The Lie is Kempson’s audacious act of going on another Tinder date mere hours after Millane’s murder, while her body lay in his hotel room. Such details serve as a stark reminder of the callous disregard for human life exhibited by individuals like Kempson.
The Lie sparks a vital conversation about the pervasive use of the ‘rough sex’ defence in cases of violence against women. By challenging this narrative and advocating for its ban, the documentary confronts society with the uncomfortable truth behind such claims and their detrimental impact on justice and accountability.
Beyond its exploration of the Millane case, The Lie serves as a reminder of the importance of safety when navigating the realm of online dating and social media.
In a world where meeting strangers through digital platforms has become so common, it is crucial to exercise caution and vigilance. Simple measures such as meeting in public places, informing friends or family about plans, and trusting one’s instincts, can make a significant difference in ensuring personal safety.
Netsafe’s Online Dating Advice can help you navigate staying safe when dating online, as well as how and where to report suspicious and abusive behaviour. If you’re feeling unsafe or worried in your current relationship or at home, be sure to read our article Feeling unsafe? You’re not alone.
Streaming on NEON from 29 May, or watch at these theatres now:
The Bridgeway – Queen Street, Auckland
Len Lye Centre Cinema – Taranaki
ShoreLine Cinema Waikanae – Wellington
