The Most Dangerous Game

Rating: Null/10 (26 June 2008)

Fincher's 'Zodiac' is an engaging suspense thriller. David Fincher is known for creating a strange unique dark atmosphere in his films and here too he does that in a 60's setting. Another strong point of his films, is the technical brilliance. Thus, in 'Zodiac' too the composition of the frightening cinematography, background score, sound effects, lighting and visuals is outstanding. Unlike his other films, here Fincher relies more on subtlety and silence creating a quiet chilling darkness.
I don't know much about the Zodiac case except that it remained unsolved. Many have commented that 'Zodiac' very much stays true to the facts. One may wonder why make a movie on an unsolved case but 'Zodiac' isn't a whodunnit (we never now that but there are strong suggestive hints), a howdunnit (this is already shown) or a whydunnit. It revolves around three people, a detective, a reporter and a cartoonist, all of whom were drawn to the case and the movie shows their involvement and how the case influenced them. I liked how Fincher portrayed Robert's fascination for the Zodiac murders. Why was it that Paul lost interest, Dave lost hope but Robert remained drawn to this particular case?
Casting is spot on. Gyllenhaal is decent. His acting isn't that different from his other works but that doesn't take away from his character. Robert Downey Jr's performance is natural and he provides some awesome comic relief. Mark Ruffalo and Anthony Edwards fit the bill. John Carroll Lynch is good. The women don't have much to do but Chloë Sevigny and Clea Duvall make the best of what they're given and they shine.
While I don't think 'Zodiac' ranks among Fincher's best, it still is a very good movie. An atmospheric suspense thriller and a fine study of three characters. Strongly recommended.