ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Amy Berg's 'Every Secret Thing' explores childhood trauma and crime

other · 2026-04-27

Amy Berg directs 'Every Secret Thing', a psychological thriller based on Laura Lippman's novel. The film follows Alice Manning and Ronnie Fuller, two marginalized girls who kidnap a baby and serve seven years for kidnapping and murder. Upon release as adults, their paths cross again. The film features a non-linear narrative and a strong female cast including Dakota Fanning, Danielle Macdonald, Elizabeth Banks, and Diane Lane. It marks Frances McDormand's debut as a producer. Berg, known for her 2006 documentary 'Deliver Us from Evil', focuses on character analysis and visual storytelling. The film premiered in 2014 in the USA.

Key facts

  • Film 'Every Secret Thing' directed by Amy Berg
  • Based on novel by Laura Lippman
  • Stars Dakota Fanning, Danielle Macdonald, Elizabeth Banks, Diane Lane
  • Frances McDormand's debut as producer
  • Story about two girls who kidnap a baby and serve 7 years
  • Non-linear narrative structure
  • Premiered in 2014 in USA
  • Genre: dramatic thriller

Entities

Artists

  • Amy Berg
  • Laura Lippman
  • Frances McDormand
  • Dakota Fanning
  • Danielle Macdonald
  • Elizabeth Banks
  • Diane Lane
  • Nate Parker
  • Common
  • Colin Donnell
  • Nicole Holofcener
  • Giulia Pezzoli

Institutions

  • Artribune
  • Fondazione Querini Stampalia
  • Biennale d'Arte di Venezia
  • Centro d'Arte Contemporanea di Villa Manin
  • MAMbo

Locations

  • USA
  • Bologna
  • Italy
  • Venice

Sources