Review: The Zodiac Killer
Blu-ray: The Zodiac Killer (1971)
Another in 101 Films AGFA line of releases (make sure to read my reviews of Effects, Lady Street Fighter, Jungle Trap and She Freak), The Zodiac Killer didn’t stimulate my low budget indie movie senses as the aforementioned 101 Films AgFA titles, but my appreciation for it grew after listening to the audio commentary with director Tom Hanson and producer Manny Nedwick.
The movie was made in an attempt to capture the real Zodiac Killer who was terrorising San Francisco at the time (honestly!), and the plot, onscreen narration, and the movie commentary, all meld together giving you information that leaves you wondering how the hell they thought it was going to be successful!
Director Tom Hanson creates a serious tone throughout the entire movie, but even with its relatively short running time there are periods where the narrative drags. The period San Francisco shots help to alleviate those moments though, giving a real sense of “being there” in the early 1970’s.
Not trashy enough to be an exploitation classic, not gory enough to satisfy movie bloodhounds, and not unintentionally funny enough to enjoy in the same way as the likes of Lady Street Fighter and Jungle Trap, The Zodiac Killer finds itself in a twilight zone where it doesn’t quite hit any of the beats that fans of low budget indie cinema enjoy.
The special features are well worth checking out and even include a bonus movie, so you once again definitely get your monies worth.
One for hardcore indie fans and serial killer aficionados.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
- Audio Commentary with director Tom Hanson and producer Manny Nedwick
- On-camera interview with director Tom Hanson and producer Manny Nedwick
- Bonus movie: ANOTHER SON OF SAM (1977)
- Tabloid-horror trailers from the AGFA archive!
- Liner notes and director Tom Hanson interview by Chris Poggiali of TEMPLE OF SCHLOCK
- Reversible cover artwork
Released 14th March 2022.
Review by Dave from a disc kindly supplied by 101 Films.
