review: ZODIAC - THE DIRECTOR'S CUT

Paramount  //  Buy from Amazon.com Based on the actual case files of one of the most intriguing unsolved crimes in the nation's history, Zodiac is a thriller from David Fincher, director of Se7en and Panic Room. As a serial killer terrifies the San Francisco Bay Area and taunts police with his ciphers and letters, investigators in four jurisdictions search for the murderer. The case will become an obsession for four men as their lives and careers are built and destroyed by the endless trail of clues. I'd read lots about the Zodiac Killer back when reading true crime books was a bit of a fascination with me. Now that I live very close to the Bay Area, it's a bit surreal to think that these events happened just a few miles down I-80 - somehow, I suppose growing up in the remote northern parts of Canada makes you feel like these types of events aren't real, or at least not in the same world that you inhabit. As per usual, I missed this one in theaters, but was very anxious to check out on DVD. David Fisher has long been a favorite director of mine and with all I read about this film, I knew it was about to be an extraordinary viewing experience... and I was bang-on. This is a slow-burning film that sneaks up on you, one that eschews the normal conventions of crime-investigation-mystery solved to instead tease you with all of the information that was known (and theorized) at the time of these killings... and then leaves you hanging. Curses. As a film, it's a powerful ride, and one I know I'll be enjoying again soon. Plus, the 2 feature-length documentaries included on the bonus disc make this an even more enticing release to pick up - very much recommended. Video A gorgeous 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer is delivered on this 2-disc release, perfectly presenting every frame in pristine fashion. Audio The included Dolby 5.1 surround mix is truly immersive, subtlely pulling you into the film with every one of your surround speakers. Extras 2 audio commentaries: director; director + actors + producers + author "Zodiac Deciphered" 7-part documentary "Visual Effects of Zodiac" featurette "This is the Zodiac Speaking" 4-part featurette "His Name Was Arthur Leigh Allen" featurette Closing Thoughts Absolutely mesmerizing film + 2nd disc of fascinating extras = another fantastic entry from the director who b rought us "Fight Club" and "Seven"