About the Author
Anne Berit Vestby: Author and filmmaker
Anne Berit Vestby is an award-winning filmmaker and author with roots in Selbu, Norway, where Belle Gunnes’ story began. Vestby grew up hearing tales of Belle and later directed the critically acclaimed documentary Bare Belle: En Seriemorder fra Selbu, which has been shown on festival stages and TV stations worldwide. Now, with Bloody Belle, Vestby delivers the most comprehensive account of Belle Gunnes’ life and crimes ever published.
I’ve spent years uncovering the untold truth of Belle Gunness—her story deserves to be heard because it sheds light on the darkest corners of human nature and the forgotten lives that shaped history. Belle Gunness wasn’t just a figure of fear; she was a product of her time, navigating the harsh realities of immigration, survival, and the pursuit of the American Dream. But beneath her facade was a darkness that still haunts us today.
Her story isn’t just about crime—it’s about the choices people make when faced with impossible circumstances. It’s about how society remembers women who defy expectations, and how power, greed, and manipulation can twist the course of history. Through years of research and rare discoveries, I’ve pieced together the fragments of her life to give readers a fuller picture of who Belle Gunness truly was, and why her story still matters.
Filmography Highlights:
- Family roots in Selbu, Norway, where Belle Gunness’ story began.
- Grew up in her grandparents’ house, built where Belle Gunness burned down her family home.
- Filmmaker specializing in historical and true crime stories.
- Directed Bare Belle, considered the most accurate Belle Gunness documentary.
- Documented stories from Brazil, Bangladesh, and the USA through fearless filmmaking.
- Creator of Institusjonen, a heartfelt series about life in nursing homes.
- Explored corruption and organized crime in Den iskalde krigen.
- Known for combining meticulous research with powerful storytelling.
