Zodiac (2007)

"Zodiac" was released in 2007 and was directed by David Fincher (Se7en, Fight Club, The Social Network). The film depicts the murders of the Zodiac killer in the late 60's into the 70's in California. A cartoonist, Robert Graysmith, becomes obsessed with the zodiac and does all he can to help the police find the killer. It becomes a personal mission for Robert to know the identity of the elusive zodiac. 

When you think of David Fincher, films such as Se7en, Fight Club, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and the Social Network come to mind. Now, those are all great films indeed, but for some reason Zodiac slips under the radar. It was released in march of 2007, a very quiet time for film. That could attribute to the lack of attention it received. This is the film that essentially revitalized Fincher's career. 

If you like mysteries that keep you guessing constantly and force you to become part of the investigation then this is the film for you. Zodiac is a fast paced film that really entertains as well as informs you on a dark figure known as the zodiac. The first half of the film is the police attempting and ultimately failing to bring a charge to any of the suspects. The second half is Robert Graysmith, who also wrote the book which the film is based on, taking the investigation into his own home. This alienates him from his work and his family. His obsessive drive to discover the zodiac is relentless. 

It isn't a horror film but it definitely has it's creepy moments. Towards the beginning there are some brutal murder scenes but they don't last. Zodiac has a tone to it. The film is dark and is constantly forcing you to look down alley ways for danger. You are always expecting something bad to happen. It puts you in a mood that most films can't. This is a powerful film in the fact that it forces this feeling upon you without manipulating. 

The acting is tremendous. The best performance comes from Robert Downey Jr. He is simply brillant. This may have been the film that brought his career back to life as well. After this, he began appearing in so many films. He is one of the best actors working today and this is a prime example of his excellence. 

"Zodiac" is a gem of a film and it's unfortunate that not many have seen it. I adore David Fincher's other films but this is one of his more honest works. So take the time out, pop some popcorn and watch this film. You'll be pleasantly surprised.  

Till next time.

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443706/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dWgRfb17-M