Movie Review - A Woman Scorned: The Betty Broderick Story

Title: A Woman Scorned: The Betty Broderick Story

Year Of Release: 1992

Review Date: July 31, 2013

Rating: PG-13

Running time: 96 minutes

Box Office Gross: N/A

Site Rating: 8 out of 10 stars

Note: There are spoilers in this review 

"A Woman Scorned: The Betty Broderick Story" is a powerful two part mini-series that was well cast and well acted. The film is based on the true story of housewife Betty Broderick, who killed her husband of 16-years and his mistress-turned-wife, after they repeatedly taunted her regarding their adulterous relationship.

Linda Kolkena and Dan Broderick

Broderick, played by "Family Ties" actress Meredith Baxter, becomes unglued when her husband, Dan Broderick, whom she worked to help put through university, becomes a successful attorney, then starts having an affair with his younger, scheming secretary, Linda Kolkena.

 

Linda Kolkena on her wedding day to Dan Broderick

Dan leaves his wife for Kolkena and the two rub Betty's face in their affair, which was cruel. They engage in stunts and taunts that begin to mentally unravel Betty, who becomes devastated at losing it all and it such a mocking manner. Dan decides to marry Linda, who essentially tries to take Betty's place in his life and that of his four children with Betty.

The real Betty Broderick crying in court 

Betty snaps one day unable to cope at being replaced, breaks into Dan and Linda's home and shoots them both to death in their bed while they sleep. Betty, who recounts her story to the court with varying expressions, from blank and emotionless to hysterically crying, stated "I have regrets but no remorse." She is sentenced to 32-years to life in prison and currently sits behind bars for the double homicide.

Meredith Baxter as Betty Broderick. Still is a capture of the mug shot scene during the film. 

What Betty did was very wrong in what was a negative reaction to the toxic conduct of her husband and his mistress, as trying to harm others is not the way. People in such situations need to take the high road and work towards rebuilding their lives when their spouse engages in treachery against them. Betrayal hurts, but prison will hurt even more. 

This story was a sad example of what can happen when people are pushed too far, as it is not a good idea pushing people's buttons. People need to exercise human compassion in their choices, realizing what can emanate from them. Honor your marriage vows and try to work through your differences.

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