Based on a haunting true story, Changeling (2008) is a gripping historical drama directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Angelina Jolie as a mother fighting for justice. When her missing son is returned — but isn’t her real child — she faces a corrupt police force, psychological abuse, and a chilling criminal case that shocked a nation.
Think you remember every courtroom twist and heartbreaking revelation? Take this 10-question trivia quiz and see if you can separate fact from fiction in one of the most powerful dramas of the 2000s.
Changeling (2008) Trivia Questions & Answers
- Who plays the lead role of Christine Collins in Changeling (2008)?
Correct Answer: Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie delivers a powerful performance as Christine Collins, earning an Academy Award nomination for her role. Her portrayal captures the anguish and strength of a mother who refuses to be silenced in her search for her missing son, Walter.
- What event sets the story in motion?
Correct Answer: Christine’s son goes missing
The film begins with the disappearance of Christine’s 9-year-old son in Los Angeles in 1928. This traumatic event sets the entire plot in motion as she fights against a corrupt system to find the truth about what happened to him.
- Which city is the film set in?
Correct Answer: Los Angeles
The story takes place in 1920s Los Angeles, highlighting the political pressure on the LAPD at the time and their desperation to resolve cases quickly — even at the cost of truth and justice. The city’s setting adds historical and social context to Christine’s struggle.
- What does the LAPD do when they return the wrong boy to Christine?
Correct Answer: They insist he’s her real son
Despite clear evidence and Christine’s own protests, the LAPD publicly claims the boy is her son. They pressure her to accept the child to improve the department’s image and avoid embarrassment — a move that escalates the conflict and reveals the extent of institutional corruption.
- Who helps Christine in her fight against the corrupt police?
Correct Answer: Reverend Gustav Briegleb
Reverend Briegleb, played by John Malkovich, is a crusading Presbyterian minister and radio host who uses his platform to support Christine and expose police misconduct. His involvement is pivotal in drawing public attention to her case and advocating for reform.
- What infamous case is connected to the events of the film?
Correct Answer: The Wineville Chicken Coop Murders
The film is based on the real-life Wineville Chicken Coop Murders, in which a man named Gordon Northcott abducted and murdered several boys in the late 1920s. This chilling subplot intersects with Christine’s story, adding a deeper level of horror and tragedy to the film.
- What does Christine risk by continuing to challenge the LAPD?
Correct Answer: Being institutionalized
To silence her, the LAPD has Christine committed to a psychiatric facility under “Code 12,” a law used to detain inconvenient or uncooperative women. Her treatment inside the institution exposes the cruel tactics used to suppress dissent in that era.
- Who directed Changeling (2008)?
Correct Answer: Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood directed the film with a restrained but emotionally charged approach, focusing on the humanity of the characters and the institutional failures that compound Christine’s suffering. The film is one of Eastwood’s most acclaimed dramatic works.
- How does the police department try to silence Christine?
Correct Answer: They have her committed to a psychiatric hospital
Rather than admit wrongdoing, the LAPD commits Christine to an asylum to discredit her and prevent her from speaking out. Inside, she faces dehumanizing treatment — until legal intervention forces her release. Her eventual lawsuit against the city helped change public attitudes.
- What theme is most central to Changeling?
Correct Answer: A mother’s determination to find truth
At its heart, Changeling is about a mother’s unwavering pursuit of justice in the face of corruption, gaslighting, and institutional failure. The film underscores the power of personal conviction and the courage it takes to stand up against powerful forces — no matter the cost.
