One of my favourite films. A true masterclass in filmmaking.

This is at all times a suspense thriller, police drama, version of true story, and a character exploration of 3 men.

We see the descent into obsession of the lead detective, the reporter, and a curious bystander who falls deepest of all - the man whose book this is based on, Robert Graysmith.

I went the cinema two evenings in a row to see this on release. I found it a captivating story but also was blown away by the sheer quality of the film itself from all aspects - direction, cinematography, the actors and the acting itself. Everyone is top class.

I've since watched it a few more times - usually in its Director's Cut longer version. The extra scenes and exploration are well worth the added runtime.

Treading a fine line without spoiling the film, I will concede that many find the film doesn't live up to its first 40 minutes. But they're missing a key point here in my opinion. The larger impact of a serial killer isn't the deaths of the people killed, it's that society as a whole is sent into panic and fear during the reign of terror. The aftermath long outweighs the initial acts.

This film does an incredible job at giving the viewer its best evidences and a viable culprit. No certainty has ever surrounded the case but there is a brilliant conclusion to a gripping story.

Films like this don't get made often. When quality of this level appears, savour it.


10/10