Review of Maniac Cop (1988) by Josh E — 14 Aug 2011

A minor cult-classic low-budget slasher film of the late 80's, well directed by William Lustig. it concerns a unstoppable psychotic New York City Police Officer named Matt Cordell, superbly played by B-movie character actor Robert D' Zar, a hulking 6'2" physically imposing man with a enormous face and a gigantic jaw, he is perfectly casted in the silent and fearsome role of the "Maniac Cop.

" Innocent people are being brutally killed by this mysterious mass murderer dressed in a police uniform , a young cop, Jack Forrest, played by Bruce Campbell in a solid dramatic turn finds himself as the chief suspect after his wife is murdered, but a veteran police detective Lt.

Frank McCrae, played by Tom Atkins in a superblative performance who originally suspected Forrest of the murders, has learned that a police officer named Matt Cordell, who was framed and imprisoned then brutally murdered by the very criminals he put behind bars is behind theses horrors! This film has all the elements that makes a good American horror B-movie, suspense, fun, gruesome gore and some solid performances from its supporting cast which includes Richard Roundtree, Kaurene Landon, William Smith and even Spiderman director Sam Raimi as a television news reporter, and former world middleweight boxing champion Jake La Motta as a police detective both in a cameo, special kudos must be given to Sheree North as the "Maniac Cop's" ally and half-crazed, cane-wielding former lady love, she delivers the film's most compelling performance.

The intriguing script by Larry Cohen makes this film an enjoyable thriller from beginning to end and a kitsch delight. Highly Recommended.