Fincher Finally Delivers on the Promise of Genius

Rating: 9/10 (3 March 2007)

Fincher has finally made a genuine film for adults. Subtle, observant and lacking the sensationalist visual tropes of earlier Fincher films, Zodiac keeps its eye trained on the wonderfully humane and all-too-human characters that devote their efforts to solving the Zodiac killings. The true mystery, and what makes this film news, is not the exploration of the graphic carnage of the killer (which the film keeps to a minimum), but rather what motivates and compels those who would seek his capture. Finally, a film that explores the vulnerabilities, idiosyncrasies, strengths, failings, and ultimately, the decency of those who find themselves, however imperfectly, compelled to act in the face of evil. The film is beautifully cast. Even more wonderful is its quiet style. Indeed, Fincher hasn't merely made a film about the seventies, but has literally adopted the style of a seventies film, faithful to the rhythms of life in all its messiness, the sort of film a young Scorsese would have given us thirty years ago (and I wish would return to). Those seeking gratuitous violence, focus group mandated plotting, editing and telegraphed messages, keep wandering the halls of the multiplex. Fincher made this one for people who watch and care about real films.