two thumbs up

Rating: 9/10 (24 July 2007)

A lot of films based on actual events can loose their rhythm. Zodiac is an exception.
The late sixties early seventies periods of the film are captured perfectly. It is easy for film makers to overdo it and become close to fancy dress especially when dealing with the seventies. Comedies like "Starsky and Hutch" do this deliberately to good effect, but I shudder when it happens in more serious work.
Zodiac grabs hold of you from the opening scene. It is well paced and takes you into the world of the main characters. There isn't a way to have made this movie better.
There is a feeling of frustration and failure among the characters toward the middle of the movie and for the audience this is palpable.
What happens after this dampening of action and mood, is an acceleration of emotion that had me gripping the arms of my chair, truly on the edge, willing Graysmith on to whatever outcome the film has for us. I was pleading for closure, such was Gylenhaals performance. Garofalo,Edwards and Downey Jr. all had stand out performances. Edwards underplayed his role to perfection and Downey Jrs casting was a masterstroke as a downward spiraling talent. His role brought rich texture and contrast to the cast. The acting/direction was seamless. A very well rounded smooth, real production. This movie is a real gem.