The Lie: The Murder of Grace Millane

What’s it about?

This true-crime documentary revisits the high-profile 2018 murder of British backpacker Grace Millane, whose life was tragically taken in Auckland, New Zealand on the eve of her 23rd birthday. Using extensive CCTV footage, the film tracks the story from the lead up to Grace’s disappearance to the eventual conviction of her killer, Jesse Kempson, in 2019, and unravels his string of lies along the way.

The facts

• Directed by Helena Coan
• English language
• Runtime: 88 minutes

Why did it get this rating?

This film was classified by Te Mana Whakaatu, Classification Office. You can find out more about classification process and ratings here.

Content that may disturb

The film features unsettling CCTV footage of Kempson and Grace in the days before her murder, and his actions after the event. The most disturbing scene is when Kempson is seen handling a suitcase containing Grace’s body. While the body itself is not shown, the footage depicts Kempson roughly handling the suitcase which he uses to transport and dispose of her remains.

Sexual violence references

There are references to sexual violence throughout this film, including several verbal recounts of the act that led to Grace’s death. While there are no visuals shown, voice-overs and courtroom footage describe Grace being strangled to death by Kempson, allegedly during sex. We also hear about Kempson’s history of sexual violation against his ex-girlfriend, and the rape of another woman.

Some instances of victim blaming take place during the murder trial. In courtroom footage, defence lawyers claim that Grace’s death was an “accident” during an act of rough sex that she initiated. They also tell Kempson’s ex-girlfriend that her accounts of sexual violence are exaggerated and untrue.

Domestic violence references

Kempson's ex-girlfriend recalls a particularly shocking instance where he pinned her to the floor with a butcher's knife to her throat, among other violent acts. She also details receiving a number of death threats from him.

The documentary sheds light on the broader issue of domestic violence in Aotearoa, featuring news reports on 'New Zealand's shocking domestic violence record' and footage from vigils held nationwide for Grace and all women lost to violence in Aotearoa.

Helplines

References to sexual violence and domestic violence could understandably be upsetting for some viewers, especially those with personal experiences, or who know someone affected. If you are struggling with what you have seen on-screen please reach out for help. If you or someone you know needs to talk:

• Women’s refuge
• 1737
• Safe to talk
• Lifeline
• Youthline

Further information

• Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau?
• The Lie: The Murder of Grace Millane – Detailed Impactful Content Guide
• Trending True Crime: Gypsy Rose Blanchard – Blog
• When trauma is involved, there are no spoilers – Blog
• New Grace Millane documentary to air (NZ Herald)