About My Friend Dahmer

My Friend Dahmer is a haunting, sobering biographical drama based on a graphic novel of the same name by John Backderf. The film was released in 2017 and is an exploration of the early life of infamous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, focusing on his high school years and his spiraling descent into madness.

Making / Production

The film is directed by Marc Meyers who also wrote the screenplay, adapting Backderf's graphic novel for the big screen. The film was primarily shot in Ohio, including in Dahmer's actual childhood home, adding an eerie authenticity to the story.

Actors

• Ross Lynch stars as Jeffrey Dahmer, portraying the notorious killer during his high school years with a chilling sense of discomfort.
• Alex Wolff plays John "Derf" Backderf, a schoolmate of Dahmer's, whose character offers a contrasting perspective.
• Anne Heche plays Joyce Dahmer, Jeffrey’s mentally ill mother whose own struggles come to contribute to her son's descent.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is shot in Jeffrey Dahmer's actual childhood home in Ohio
• The role of Dahmer marked a dramatic change for Ross Lynch, who was previously known for his roles in Disney Channel productions

Quotes

• "I'm just like anybody else." - Jeffrey Dahmer
• "This is not a sideshow attraction." - Lionel Dahmer

Music, Soundtrack

• The haunting musical score was provided by Andrew Hollander, subtly underscoring the building tension throughout the film
• Music from the 1970's was used to enhance the feel of the period setting