Wow, what a GREAT movie!

Rating: 9/10 (30 November 2010)

Phew, wow. Just finished watching Zodiac, and I have to say that it FAR exceeded my expectations!
Frankly, I wasn't sure what to expect. "Zodiac" popped up on my Netflix "recommended" list for unknown reasons. I had heard good buzz about the film, although I don't remember it being out. So I said "meh" and rented it.
This film has reminded me of what good, suspense drama is all about. It has literally renewed my faith in the genre.
I don't want to over-analyze the film, because I think that might ruin it, but here's a quick list of what I found appealing about the film:
-- Its pacing and tension is reminiscent of some of the dramatic elements of great 60's/70's crime dramas like Serpico and Bullitt.
-- Yet it tells the story without any great car chases or shoot outs. This is a VERY good thing, for you find yourself absorbed into the story without being shocked out of it by noise.
-- It is even filmed using 70's era lighting techniques. It looks like you're watching a classic, but it was filmed in 2007! This SO suits this film.
-- The characters are gritty and real. No pretty boys or hot vixens. This helps absorb you into the story.
-- The acting is top notch. These folks do what good acting is supposed to do: makes you forget these are actors, even though some of them have big names (one exception: Brian Cox does come on a bit strong as attorney Melvin Belli, but actually, he ROCKS this performance, because it's supposed to be over-the-top). The cast is quite stellar in this.
-- It keeps you guessing all the way through, but it also doesn't lose you in vagaries. The writers aren't TRYING to lose you, they're just telling a complex story and asking you to keep up. Kudos to them.
-- It does not overburden you with heavy detail like some murder mysteries. Instead it portrays the illusion that the CHARACTERS are overburdened with detail. This is a huge plot point and very well played. There are no deus ex machinas here, you can tell the characters earned every bit of their successes (and failures).
-- There is enough creep, gore, and suspense to keep you adequately "wierded out".
I tell ya: I really liked this flick. Makes me have hope for movies again.