Finch Perfect

Rating: 8/10 (3 March 2007)

One thing about this film is that it is not your typical serial killer thriller. Nothing like Se7en, so don't go with that expectation. This is a film with facts, a film that educates as well as entertains. One thing this movie did was keep me and most of the people in the theater glued to the screen. Fincher's style is mesmerizing, something that grabs your attention above all else. Another thing he is able to accomplish is atmosphere, the first scene of the movie is the second official Zodiac killing. Fincher creates an atmosphere worthy of an 80s slasher film. The creepy Mustang is menacing enough that we don't need to see the killer, the car and its tinted windows tell us that these kids are doomed. It starts with a bang and then we're dragged into this mystery of facts and obsession. The Graysmith character is by far the most interesting and Downey delivers a brilliant supporting role. Ruffalo's plays his detective role a la Bullitt. The characters work and go hand in hand with the dialogue. All in all I believe that this movie is one of Fincher's best and is not for the dimwitted, do not expect your normal serial killer film. This may have some graphic killings and an especially disturbing scene in which a woman is stabbed several times while tied up. But this is a movie based on facts and delivers them like a book would. I rate it a 8/10.