
"Charlie Says" falls within the Crime and Psychological Drama genres, focusing on the infamous Manson Family murders. Typical of this genre, it includes elements such as true crime storytelling, exploration of criminal psychology, courtroom and prison settings, and the intricate dynamics between perpetrators and society. What sets "Charlie Says" apart is its unique perspective: rather than merely recounting the crimes, it delves deeply into the rehabilitation and humanization of three women—Leslie Van Houten, Patricia Krenwinkel, and Susan Atkins—through the eyes of a young graduate student who teaches them in prison. This focus on transformation and the complexity of guilt and redemption provides a reflective and nuanced approach uncommon in standard crime narratives.