Zodiac

Let me just start by saying that the cast of Zodiac is absolutely stellar. Here’s a rundown of some (and most) of the testosterone-filled cast. Jake Gyllenhaal (He’s more than just a pretty face), Robert Downey Jr. (such an underrated actor), Mark Ruffalo (He’s so versatile), Anthony Edwards (Where have you been all my post-ER life?), Brian Cox (Um, seriously, he’s in everything), Dermot Mulroney (charming), Donal Logue (Love him! He was in tv series Grounded for Life and a frequent VH1 commentator), Tom Verica (American Dreams alumni), Adam Goldberg (Dazed and Confused), John Caroll Lynch (Norm in Fargo) and the one supporting female role, Chloe Sevigny (indie film superstar). Phew! Now that that’s out of the way…I loved this. With previews, it’s just shy of being three hours, but it never really drags along, and part of this is because it is smartly played out in roughly three acts. The first portion focuses more on Gyllenhaal and Downey Jr.’s roles, but more so the latter, as a San Franciscan reporter who deteriorates because of the enigmatic Zodiac serial killer. The second act focuses more on the Ruffalo and Edwards’ characters as their cops conduct in-depth investigations that lead them in circles. And the final part revolves around Gyllenhaal and Ruffalo, but mainly how the former becomes obsessed with solving the ten-year-old case. Set in the 60s and 70s, I did find it peculiar though that Gyllenhaal’s look never changes, and he doesn’t even grow gray hairs, which seems unlikely for a stressed-out guy trying to find a killer. But the costume choices for Downey are so great – gotta love those embroidered denim jackets. Sometimes it’s hard to follow along with the quick-talking dialogue that involves key plot developments in terms of places and names (practically every scene). Also, some of the “killing-off” scenes are pretty morbid, as can be expected, but it’s gut-wrenching to watch since you know what’s coming. Overall, Zodiac is infused with witty lines, smooth transitions, individualized characters, quality acting, and a few thrilling moments to boot! It’s definitely a good way to kill some time. And yes, that pun was intended.

Directed by David Fincher
Runtime: 158 minutes