Entertainment

How Wednesday Addams Helps Create 'Lizzie Borden'

by Kelly Schremph

It's been well over two decades since Christina Ricci's portrayal of Wednesday Addams first graced the silver screen in The Addams Family, and yet it's remained one of the actress' most iconic characters to this very day. Her deadpan delivery and psychotic stare probably should have been disturbing, but Ricci somehow managed to make it endearing. Plus, if there was ever a spot-on representation of a moody teenager, it didn't get much better than this. Since then, Ricci has gone on to be in many other projects throughout the years, including Lifetime's upcoming series The Lizzie Borden Chronicles , which debuts this Sunday. In fact, her fictionalized depiction of the infamous woman accused and then acquitted of murdering her father and stepmother with an ax has proven to be so convincing that one can't help but wonder what she's channeling as a source of inspiration. And I'm guessing our beloved Wednesday has a little something to do with it.

I mean, when you think about it, Wednesday and this TV representation of Lizzie have a very similar dark mindset. So much so that I think the Addams Family daughter significantly helped Ricci prepare for her Lizzie Borden role. So when you sit down this Sunday to tune into Lifetime's latest thriller, keep this idea in mind and reflect on the many important lessons that I think Wednesday bestowed on Ricci's character.

Emotions Are Overrated

Best to leave those pesky little things at the door. #braidedhairdontcare

Blending In Is Key

Normalcy is basically your best disguise.

Perfect That Resting Bitch Face

It's all about intimidation, my friends.

Be Confident In Your Strengths

Equal amounts impressive and disturbing.

And Own Up To Your Weaknesses

After all, it's important to know your limits.

A Good Tagline Can Go A Long Way

It'll make you all the more memorable.

Never Be Afraid To Experiment

Hey, you only live once, right?

Nothing Beats A Good Comeback

Nailed it.

Don't Underestimate The Power Of Bargaining

Sounds like a fair trade.

Be Ambitious

Hard work reaps substantial rewards.

And Most Importantly, Love What You Do

So go ahead, revel in your badassery. You've earned it.

Images: Paramount Pictures; nadezhdalovegood (3), theweirdlifeofafangirl, smile-pleaseee, heckyeahreactiongifs/Tumblr; Giphy (5)