Zodiac

Mystery, Cyphers, Fear, and Intrigue, these are all words that describe the thrilling plot of the new film about the Zodiac killer. But, the film is only going to be half my story, why? Because I was able to go to the premiere! Thats right, the movie simultaneously premiered in New York, San Francisco, and Redlands CA. Why? you may ask. Because one of the only survivors of the Zodiac is currently living in Redlands. His name isin Brian Hartnell and he organized the screening of the film, which he consulted on and cameos as an extra in. The screening was a benefit for the Redlands bowl spring music festival. Hartnell, as well as the producer, and actor Donal Logue.

This was a glorious evening with the attendees gathered the unusually austere Krikorian Theaters in Redlands. We heard from all the movie makers in attendance, and then the movie started. This film was better than I expected. I was afraid that it would be over dramatized as Hollywood often produces movies, but no. It was very much about the investigation, the evidence and the suspects. It was more reminiscent of an episode of CSI than SAW III. The characters were round and well developed. Although, I must agree with many of the critics, the film was perhaps longer than it needed to be. The producer said that during the research for the film the script bulged from 150 pages to over 200. Perhaps they should have stuck with 150. Other than that it was a delightful film and very cool to see a couple cameos of people I know in it. MY RATING: 8.5/10