Review of Zodiac (2007) by Timothy S — 02 Jun 2013

Director David Fincher raised the bar on serial killer movies when he made "Seven" which was at a level most thought would be untouchable. As it turns out, the only filmmaker that could top him was Fincher himself, years later with the fact-based "Zodiac".

This is an enthralling, exhilarating film, beautifully shot and meticulously crafted. From the opening shot of the fireworks exploding over the skies of Vallejo, gorgeous and exquisitely detailed, you know this is going to be something special. Ficher has a great eye for detail, and a reputation for painstakingly re-shooting scenes striving for perfection, and nowhere has that led to greater success than it has here.

Couple that passion with a gripping true life story, an unsolved mystery that is so tantalizing that every new detail in the case propels the film to even greater heights. The director has found a kinship in the character of Robert Graysmith, played here to perfection by Jake Gyllenhaal, in that they are both so obsessive and driven. Because of the similarities, it's no wonder the film is as good as it is.

The murder sequences are frightening and flawlessly staged, but this isn't your typical serial killer bloodbath. It's more about the investigation spanning decades, and in the process, it leads us down some very dark paths. It's more wordy and thoughtful than "Seven", but there are still several jolting, heart-stopping moments here than do make "Zodiac" a worthy successor to Fincher's earlier winner. This is the year's best film.