"The Pledge," directed by Sean Penn and released in 2001, is not directly based on a true story, but it is inspired by Friedrich Dürrenmatt's play "The Pledge" (1950). The film follows a retired police detective, played by Jack Nicholson, who becomes obsessed with solving a young girl's murder. While the narrative is fictional, it explores themes of obsession, morality, and the complexities of human nature, reflecting real-life emotional struggles and societal issues rather than a specific true crime case.

"The Pledge," directed by Sean Penn and released in 2001, is a psychological thriller that explores themes of obsession, guilt, and the quest for truth. It stars Jack Nicholson as a retired detective who becomes fixated on solving a young girl's murder. The film received mixed reviews, with some praising Nicholson's performance and the film's atmospheric direction, while others found it slow-paced and bleak. Overall, it appeals to viewers who appreciate character-driven narratives and moral complexity, but it may not be for everyone.

"The Pledge," directed by Sean Penn, follows retired detective Jerry Black, played by Jack Nicholson, who promises the mother of a murdered girl to find her killer. The film explores themes of obsession, guilt, and the search for closure. Jerry becomes increasingly consumed by the case, leading him to sacrifice his personal life and sanity. The narrative highlights the futility of his quest and questions the nature of justice and truth, ultimately revealing the complexity of human motivations and the weight of promises made.

Jack Nicholson was born on April 22, 1937. "The Pledge" was released on December 27, 2001. At that time, he was 64 years old. In the film, he plays the role of Jerry Black, a retired detective who makes a promise to a young girl's mother to find her killer. Nicholson's performance received praise, contributing to the film's dramatic tension.