Serial Killing & the Cinema
As a huge lover of film, I've seen tons of serial killer movies from all over the world. Here I list some favorites and rarities, with some notes as a guide for myself and perhaps other film fans, but in no particular order. Yes, chaos, learn to embrace it to a degree or be ruined by it.
I don't claim to be an expert on the subject of serial killers, just a big fan of film in general. I grew up renting R rated films as a young child in the early 80's. 8 years old and no one seemed to care back then at the video stores, and Mom and Dad were too busy working or with the younger kids. This perhaps is the reason I have little preference in the type of film I'll watch at any time. Dark films, bright films, high budget, low budget, I love many of all sorts from all corners of the world. To me, music is undoubtedly the greatest of all human artforms, but a truly great film can be just as great as a brilliant piece of music I have come to find. Partly I think this is due to the fact that ever since sound was added to film, films also contain music, and some use it so much more effectively than others; Sometimes to the point of artistic bliss. When great art can capture that flow with the viewer, it is a special thing, and of course every viewer is quite unique. Some people, believe it or not, believe that they are not unique. Nonsense, you just aren't diving into things enough to notice. Great art is definitely subjective, and as they say, one person's garbage is another person's treasure. Rating films and even critiquing them is to me actually a very silly thing, and I hesitate to take it at all very seriously. Yet the art itself, at least the stuff that speaks to me is very serious to me; And it is likely for that reason that I decided to start rating films online and sharing my experiences and favorites with others. To pass on a great thing to another person in such a way is a privilege of the modern world; And sharing anything good with another has always been one of the glorious things in human life. I'll add more and more films to this list in time, and I've also added a few television productions worth noting. So here goes...
In the words of Jim Morrison, "Let's plan a murder or start a religion."
P.S. - Also of possible interest to those who have looked at this list. Here I have written some notes and such on a number of my favorite episodes, and some other interesting episodes of Forensic Files. One of the very best true investigative crime shows of all time.
That list is right here... http://www.imdb.com/list/ls520080699/
I don't claim to be an expert on the subject of serial killers, just a big fan of film in general. I grew up renting R rated films as a young child in the early 80's. 8 years old and no one seemed to care back then at the video stores, and Mom and Dad were too busy working or with the younger kids. This perhaps is the reason I have little preference in the type of film I'll watch at any time. Dark films, bright films, high budget, low budget, I love many of all sorts from all corners of the world. To me, music is undoubtedly the greatest of all human artforms, but a truly great film can be just as great as a brilliant piece of music I have come to find. Partly I think this is due to the fact that ever since sound was added to film, films also contain music, and some use it so much more effectively than others; Sometimes to the point of artistic bliss. When great art can capture that flow with the viewer, it is a special thing, and of course every viewer is quite unique. Some people, believe it or not, believe that they are not unique. Nonsense, you just aren't diving into things enough to notice. Great art is definitely subjective, and as they say, one person's garbage is another person's treasure. Rating films and even critiquing them is to me actually a very silly thing, and I hesitate to take it at all very seriously. Yet the art itself, at least the stuff that speaks to me is very serious to me; And it is likely for that reason that I decided to start rating films online and sharing my experiences and favorites with others. To pass on a great thing to another person in such a way is a privilege of the modern world; And sharing anything good with another has always been one of the glorious things in human life. I'll add more and more films to this list in time, and I've also added a few television productions worth noting. So here goes...
In the words of Jim Morrison, "Let's plan a murder or start a religion."
P.S. - Also of possible interest to those who have looked at this list. Here I have written some notes and such on a number of my favorite episodes, and some other interesting episodes of Forensic Files. One of the very best true investigative crime shows of all time.
That list is right here... http://www.imdb.com/list/ls520080699/
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- DirectorRobert WieneStarsWerner KraussConrad VeidtFriedrich FeherHypnotist Dr. Caligari uses a somnambulist, Cesare, to commit murders.Some claim this is among the first horror masterpieces of the cinema. I'm not sure I'd go quite that far, but it is a pretty great story no doubt. In it's time, I'm sure it was far more effective than it is today. It holds up reasonably well, but certainly not entirely in my view. If you do enjoy silent film, this is definitely a must see. 7.5/10
- DirectorFritz LangStarsPeter LorreEllen WidmannInge LandgutWhen the police in a German city are unable to catch a child-murderer, other criminals join in the manhunt.Lang's film is certainly interesting, and well ahead of its time. It's likely the first great film on this type of subject. 8.5/10
- StarsMark HarmonFrederic ForrestGeorge GrizzardThe story of serial killer, Ted Bundy.If you want to see the most detailed film on Bundy, especially as an adult during his crime spree, then this just over 3 hour, two part TV movie is still without a doubt the best bet. It doesn't detail or show much of his crimes, the scene usually cuts just before the crime, but that's how 80's TV movies usually dealt with the extreme. The film though does show many of Bundy's personal relationships and real nuances more than any other recreation I've seen. Harmon's Golden Globe nominated performance is perhaps the closest anyone has ever come to matching the real Bundy personaS, as multiple as they were. The film details quite well the cunning subtle manipulative aspects of Ted. Bringing girls he had safe relationships with to parties with connected community people, making a friendly, smiley appearance and then quickly taking off. Like a politician, just gradually working everybody little by little, until hopefully one day he could use them for his gain. He was a Psych major, a Law student and a person who had considered getting into politics. Bundy is the type of serial killer that interests me because he was smart. Most serial killers in history, the ones that have been caught at least, were not very intelligent people. There are of course quite a few exceptions, but it is true that predominantly most come from abusive backgrounds, with little money, and have less than average intelligence. It's just a fact. Bundy as well as most of the more interesting serial killers in history, definitely defy those often common factors, especially when it comes to intelligence. This film is pretty standard in it's delivery, but quite detailed and well acted, so very worth the watch. This account was actually praised for how close to fact it was when it came out. The amount of things they have right is pretty impressive, especially when you consider that when this film came out, Bundy still had not even confessed to even one of the murders on record. However the evidence was staggering. As it is well said in this film, the guy could in his mind rationalize anything. The only big knock I have against the film really is the terrible 80's musical score. Thankfully they didn't flood the film with too, too much of it. Just enough to make you very sure you hate it. 7.5/10
- DirectorMatthew BrightStarsMichael Reilly BurkeBoti BlissJulianna McCarthyThe story of serial killer Ted Bundy.If you are really into serial killers, I strongly recommend this. In some ways it's quite unique, and the lead performance is very menacing. The film almost seems like a farce at times, but in a way that perhaps captures the surreal aspect of serial killing in a way rarely, if ever caught well on camera before(American Psycho touches this area as well.). It's far from a perfect film, but it is a worthy watch for many fans of the subject. While the tone of the film may offend some deeply, for others who can stomach the crudeness, they actually may find this film to be very funny at times. I know I did. Now don't get me wrong, the things Ted Bundy did are obviously not funny at all. Nonetheless this film takes a bit of a different look at things from the perspective of Bundy, and at times it can be quite entertaining here. In this way it ends up being a strange but somewhat thought provoking film. As I said, if you are interested in the genre, I strongly recommend taking a look at this film. It's not the best Bundy film, but it is well worth a watch for many. Some of the funniest moments in the film have to do more with Bundy's apparent kleptomaniac tendencies. Some could say that this film is fairly disrespectful to his victims and overall is in bad taste. I can understand this definitely. Though I felt the film sort of evens itself out in the end by showing what a coward Bundy really was. Nor did I feel that the film glorified Bundy in any way. What you see is a monster of a man for sure, which is what he was. A monster when in control, but more like a crybaby when he wasn't. As with all serial killer films, watch at your own risk. 7/10
- DirectorMichael FeiferStarsCorin NemecKane HodderJen NikolaisenBased on the true story of one of history's most demented serial killers.This is about as bad a Bundy film as you could possibly imagine, with the now one exception of the 2021 Boogeyman Bundy film. It almost seems like this should've gotten some type of award for how unbelievably boring it is. It's not easy to make a film quite this terrible or uninteresting, especially with such a subject. Somehow, these idiots pulled it off.
There is in my view only one single interesting aspect to this entire film and that is that it tries to explore Bundy's family life more than any other film I've seen on him. And in doing this, the film tries to find his early motivations for becoming the monster that he later became. This in reality is one of the things that does seem to be the least understood aspect of Ted. We know his true father was either his Grandfather, or someone who he had never known at all. There are many contradictory stories about Ted growing up, from himself, and from former schoolmates. It is fair to say that Ted's early life is still very much a mystery in many ways. But we do know that his family life was definitely far from traditional or what one would call stable. Nonetheless, this film doesn't show much that is worth anyone's interest, and much of it is based on stories and presumptions only.
This is easily among the worst films I've ever seen. 2/10 - DirectorJoe BerlingerStarsLily CollinsZac EfronAngela SarafyanA chronicle of the crimes of Ted Bundy from the perspective of Liz, his longtime girlfriend, who refused to believe the truth about him for years.I wrote this review which I'll just copy and paste a few months back...
Throw Out Your Preconceived Notions
It seems there's a real mixed bag of responses to this film, and many of them not so good. However I thought the film was actually pretty interesting. If you go into it expecting a tense or gruesome thriller based on the well known killer, it's no wonder you may end the film being disappointed. It really isn't that type of film. It's more of an exploratory film that attempts to look into the mind of Ted, and his fiancé once the law closes in on him. In this respect, I found this project to actually be a fairly unique and worthy quest.
Say what you will, but to me this was an interesting view on the true crime events of Bundy. Here in this portrayal, and you do also see it in real Bundy interview footage as well, it seems that Ted entirely disassociates himself from the crimes in his mind, and from the person who did the crimes. As if he has a totally 'Other' side within himself. Obviously a serial killer must compartmentalize themselves to a certain degree, especially if they are to continue carrying on relationships in society that hide their darker side. For Ted this was certainly part of his aim. Many believe that Ted maintained his innocence for so long mainly because it gave him some form of control, which was in a way his obsession. The film focuses on this manipulative aspect, and in my view, quite successfully. I think his day to day manipulative behaviour was overall captured and written much better for the TV film, The Deliberate Stranger. Nonetheless this film is still quite interesting in it's own right.
To be honest, I never totally believed that his long time girlfriend with the daughter, had such a hard time believing it was him that did the murders. It's hard to believe that anyone would do the things Ted did, sure, in that way I understand her disbelief. However in reality, contrary to this film, she actually reported Ted to the police three different times. So to me, that says her suspicions were pretty firm. Truthfully, this film ignores a lot of facts, but to me it's still worth a watch or two.
I've never been much of an Efron guy from what I've seen in the past. Though I must admit, here he does a very good job. Strong performance, pretty strong film. Lily Collins however is pretty much always a pleasure to watch. Her performance here was nothing short of excellent. I believe I also noticed that "I see dead people" kid in the film. Don't let any of this push or pull you. If you're interested in it, watch it, but I recommend going into this film, and in fact all films without any expectations. As the Buddha is often credited with saying, "Think less, observe more.". 7/10 - DirectorDaniel FarrandsStarsChad Michael MurrayHolland RodenJake HaysThe intrepid FBI agents Kathleen McChesney and Robert Ressler, organize one of the largest manhunt in history to apprehend America's most infamous serial killer, Ted Bundy.This is one of the few times I would consider a film to actually be offensive. Most of the film is just a fictionalized retelling of the Bundy story. All of it is done so unauthentically, nothing here feels even remotely real. It just feels like a bad sick film without any purpose at all but to make money off of the Bundy name. That is offensive in my view. It's so terrible, right from the start. Skip this one for sure, no matter your taste. The film is so dull, nonsensical and there's nothing new or interesting here for anyone. The film is very tasteless at times, but not even in such a way that gore fanatics or very sadistic people would like it. No, just in a very unintelligent sort of way, mostly through brutally bad dialogue. Some of the worst dialogue I've ever heard in a film resides in this one. The few people who actually wrote good reviews for this probably worked on the film. I rarely ever give out 10's or 1's on this site, but this is one of those very rare times. It's that damn bad! 1/10
- DirectorBill EaglesStarsBruce GreenwoodSam JaegerSarah ManninenA series of interviews are conducted with convicted serial killer Ted Bundy in hopes of gaining insight into the Green River Killer who is terrorizing Seattle.This film is based upon the 1989 non-fiction book The Riverman: Ted Bundy and I Hunt for the Green River Killer by Robert D. Keppel and William J. Birnes. Many have claimed this book actually inspired the Harris novel The Silence of the Lambs. However this is not true. This book was actually released after Harris's Silence novel. So unless Harris had a time machine, yeah, no. Harris may have indeed been influenced by this real life story from seeing or hearing about it in the press or elsewhere, or perhaps from reading about the FBI who did very similar interviews in the 1970's and 80's as is shown in the TV series Mindhunter. Nonetheless, contrary to popular rumor, SilenceOTL is not based on the book that this is based on. This film is actually pretty good if you're interested in Bundy or The Green River Killer. The film essentially becomes more about Bundy than the GRK, but nonetheless we do learn a good bit about both. This film, like The Deliberate Stranger has a good bit of very real Bundy-esque truths within it. To some degree, we definitely are able to get inside his head if we dare, and into Ridgeway's to some degree as well. Keppel after all was a Homicide Detective who worked both cases, and he became known as quite an skilled profiler in understanding serial killers. Much of this is shown here. Overall the film is quite grim and fairly brutal, especially for a TV movie. It's more psychologically grim and brutal than visually, though it has some grim visuals as well. If you're interested and you can stomach this kind of fare, it's well worth a look. 7/10
- StarsTom CavanaghCurrie GrahamAmy DavidsonA pair of girls seeking adventure beyond their western Washington trailer park encounter the area's most ruthless serial killer. The series is based on Sheriff David Reichert's book, "Chasing the Devil: My Twenty-Year Quest to Capture the Green River Killer".Somehow this has a 7 rating on here so far. Laughable! 3.5/10
- DirectorVictoria DuleyStarsNaomi AsherChopper BernetDawn BishopTap into the mind of the 'Green River Killer' as his son looks back on his relationship with his father, who killed at least 50 women while masquerading as a normal suburban dad.5.5/10
- DirectorFrancis GirodStarsMichel PiccoliRomy SchneiderMascha GonskaA cunning French legal adviser teams up with an unemployed German girl and her sister to commit murders in Marseille.This is another film based upon a true story of a serial killing trio that actually may make you laugh at times. It's even listed here as a horror comedy. I assure you however, it will also sicken you unless you yourself are a sociopath. A black comedy it is. In 1974 when this film was released in France, people were up in arms about it. Many have dismissed this film as having very unrealistic one dimensional characters, and this is mostly true, but I think there is a bigger point to this film overall. It's real subject matter under the surface is the selfishness of society under the rule of money. It seems most have missed the point here. In my view this is an artistic piece with something to say. It is actually thought provoking in fact if you just watch it for what it is. The lengths some people will go to, to get what they want can be drastic, and this film drives home that nail. Overall, I think this film is underrated generally. It's a fairly daring piece for it's time and it has a worthy thought provoking story interestingly delivered. Far from a masterpiece, sure, but I feel if you enjoy good serial killer films, you can't miss this one. It ends with a fictional marrige is hell sort of joke. If you want to know the real fate of the trio, I'll tell you. The two Sisters were sentenced to 10 years each, as it was one of them that ended up confessing when caught during another scam, and effectively ended Serrat's whole money making murder scheme. Serrat himself was eventually guillotined for the crimes. 7/10
- DirectorAbel FerraraStarsZoë LundBogeyAlbert SinkysA timid and mute seamstress goes insane after being attacked and raped twice in one day, in which she takes to the streets of New York City after dark and randomly shoots men with a .45 caliber pistol.Perhaps the hottest serial killer in film history in this one.
You could fairly say that the first 4 feature films of Abel Ferrara, including the TV movie The Gladiator are all in their own ways, serial killer films. Driller Killer was his 1st feature that wasn't rated XXX, this was his 2nd film, Fear City listed here on my list beside this film was Abel's 3rd feature. Ferrara has garnered a lot of love from hardcore artistic film lovers because he often pushes the envelope with his films in many ways, including in the storytelling itself. Personally, he is one of the directors who I am currently working through their entire filmographies. I don't have many Ferrara films left to get to now, and I can say that if you're into serious films, he certainly is a director to checkout. Anyway, this truly is one of Abel's most successful and loved films. Though, like all Ferrara films, they are not exactly for everybody. When you watch a film from this director, know that your comfort zone will likely be challenged at least to some degree. As far as rape/revenge films go, this is easily among the most artistic and best ever made. 7.5/10 - DirectorAbel FerraraStarsTom BerengerBilly Dee WilliamsJack ScaliaStrippers in Manhattan are being stalked and maimed by a psycho-killer. A conflicted ex-boxer-turned-talent-manager and his business partner and friend, who represent some of the girls, set out to find him before he strikes again.This Abel Ferrara has some weaker aspects to it, however it also boasts some pretty impressive things within it. Honestly as far as these type of 1980's films go, this one is far superior in many ways to the average. The IMDb rating here on this film is crazy really. It does have some problems this film, for sure. As said however, when compared to the average police crime thriller of the time, this one really does have many great things going for it. Overall, it is a pretty good film, and well worth a watch for many. 7/10
- DirectorJohn MurlowskiStarsScott Anthony LeetCole WilliamsDusty SorgThe true story of William Bonin a California serial killer.Contrary to a few of the reviews on this site, this film is actually perhaps the most factual serial killer film ever produced. There are a few reviews here that claim otherwise because of a few aspects, but they're simply wrong, and did not pay enough attention to the film in my view is their main problem. It is true that the film does not show any rape or much torture, which this killer was absolutely known for. However this is actually talked about in the film. By the time the film was done, it was clear to me that one of the main motivations of this killer was sexual. It was clear without the film overly exploiting this aspect. These aspects of the killer are delivered more through dialogue than through showing these aspects outright, which in my view is actually entirely the right approach here. It's also a fact that this killer while he was known to be gay in certain circles, outwardly he actually hid his homosexuality for the most part. Only certain people even knew. So really, I feel the way the film shows these aspects is actually done extremely well. I know I really don't need to see the guy rape and torture people to make it a better film. In fact, I'm certain I'd vastly prefer the film the way it is. The truth is, if you really watch this film, we do really get an unbelievably deep look into this killers head. Personally, I wouldn't want to go any deeper. I in fact say bravo to the writer/director here for giving us such an amazingly personal view of this killer, without overdoing it. The restraint here is nothing short of excellent in my estimation.
Even parts of the dialogue in this film are actual quotes of certain individuals portrayed. Nearly everything in this film is 100% true. Not only does this make the film a more compelling serial killer tale than most, but the execution of the scenes here is also great. The acting is strong, the writing is ultra fitting, and there are some very unique things about this film that are done so effectively. For me to see people giving this film any less than a 7 out of 10 is actually quite crazy I feel. It's too good, and too unique for what it is. It's a low budget film, but really the only thing that overly shows this off is the time period. No, this doesn't look like the late 1970's or early 80's really, as we see all sorts of newer models of cars, etc. Nonetheless, in my view this really doesn't take much away from the overall product here. I don't go into low budget films expecting perfection in these fairly unimportant kinds of details anyhow. I'm not really sure who would bother to care so much, in this case especially. The film is very convincing in the character interactions, as this really is for the most part a character driven serial killer tale. To me, it's this aspect that is the real magic of this film. The killer and his interactions with others just flows in this film with such a real life vibe to it, thanks mostly to a high quality script and some truly great acting by the lead.
It's a horrific film in a sense, but at the same time I feel it is a very worthy, compelling and very well executed low budget marvel. Definitely not to be missed by anyone who is interested in serial killer films.
8/10 - DirectorJohn SwabStarsOlivia LuccardiSam QuartinEden BrolinA seemingly naive and devout young woman navigates her way into the underground world of truck stop sex workers a.k.a. "lot lizards."Most cult film fans will be glad they caught this one. I won't even say anything here, it's best to go into this film knowing as little as possible about it. While this is certainly not for everyone, the right audience will greatly appreciate this fairly recent film.
7.5/10 - DirectorJoel BenderStarsLaura PreponMisha CollinsPatrick BauchauBased on real events, Paul Bernardo and his wife, Karla Homolka, kidnap, sexually abuse, and murder three young girls.This was a very controversial film upon its release, especially in Canada where the crimes took place. I would agree to some extent that it is an exploitation film of true events, and in that sense it's easy to say that it's in poor taste. Nonetheless I thought the execution of most of the scenes was quite good, and the film overall was definitely somewhat interesting.
The biggest criticism I have for the film is the portrayal of Karla Homolka herself. Here she is painted mostly as a victim, which for many of those who paid attention to this real life case just doesn't seem to ring true at all. Nor does it to many of the law professionals and authorities that dealt with her, or evaluated her. In fact Homolka is said to be far above average intelligence(In fact about genius level.) and seems to have played a much bigger role in the initiation of the crimes than the film portrays. In fact everyone who ever saw the actual videotaped sessions of the torture and killings to my knowledge have all said that Karla was in no way, in a total of 6 tapes nothing but a very willing accomplice, and perhaps even the mastermind behind the crimes. Many people in Canada who followed the story closely believe she was let off far too easy by the Justice System for her part in these real crimes. The truth is however, the authorities had absolutely nothing on Paul being a killer other than the testimony of Karla herself. There was zero physical evidence at all in his trial, as there simply was none found. In order to get a conviction, authorities basically hid as much as they could from Paul's jury and the public, and went ahead to at least try to nail one of them for the 3 murders. Whatever the reality may be, if it sounds interesting to you as a film, it's likely worth a look. Though the film does not give you many, if any of the details about after the crimes, as I have done here. Anyway, this film itself is quite well done in terms of scene execution, however the truth for the most part is not here, and untruths definitely are. Nonetheless, it may be worth a watch for some. 7/10 - StarsJennifer BlackJohn RosenAlan YoungGlamorous couple Paul Bernardo and Karla Homolka fall in love and marry, but they become the most notorious killers in Canadian history after murdering three schoolgirls.This genuinely perhaps is the most disturbing true crime story that there is out there in terms of modern crime history. The main reason for that is, Karla is the only person that is well known to be without much doubt at all, a very real and sadistic serial killer, yet she is living free out in today's society. In this sense, there isn't a crazier true crime story around. Watch this documentary mini-series to see exactly why that actually is a very, very scary thing. Not only is Karla at this point of her documented life, a well known manipulator, rapist, sadist, but she's also a genius, or very near genius intelligence levels. So much so that she was basically able to trap justice authorities into giving her a total of only 12 years for truly horrendous crimes. Though she was also somewhat fortunate that some events just seemed to playout in her favor, especially a lawyer involved in Paul's trial that willingly hid evidence from everyone for a long period of time. This window of opportunity gave Karla an upperhand, which she used to great extent against both Paul and the authorities. If you want to watch something on the real story, this 4 part mini-series documentary is so far the best option I've seen. It's quite good, and since it came out in 2021, of course it's also very up to date at the time of my writing this. May/2023. More than anything though, this series really does give you an amazing window into this case and into the depravity of both Paul and Karla. Here, we really do get to know Karla quite well, who is without doubt one of the very scariest creatures freely walking the earth today, if not the single scariest of all. 7.5/10
- 2019–7.8 (18)TV EpisodeStarsPaul BernardoFinley FrechetteKarla HomolkaPaul Bernardo and Karla Homolka: It was one of North America's most haunting and horrific crime sprees. From 1987 to 1992, there were a series of rapes, abductions, and murders of young women just north of the U.S. - Canadian border. Authorities from Ontario and FBI profile detectives from the United States joined forces to try and capture the monster responsible, but for more than 5 years they came up empty. Then, cops caught a break, a tip that led them to an unlikely suspect. A blond, blue-eyed accountant who lived with his beautiful wife in a quaint pink house in the suburbs. They were sure they had their man, but the saga was far from over. Disturbing videotapes were discovered, and the public learned the sordid details of the crimes - and who else was involved. It sent shock waves throughout the country... and the world.Or you can watch the slightly more overdramatic 2 part, 2 hour version of their story in the Very Scary People series. I think you basically get all the same info in this 2 hour, 2 part series as in the Mini Series above, though I consider the one above to be overall a good bit better, and certainly you'll get a few more details. 6.5/10
- 2019–7.6 (17)TV EpisodeStarsPaul BernardoFinley FrechetteKarla HomolkaPaul Bernardo and Karla Homolka: It was one of North America's most haunting and horrific crime sprees. From 1987 to 1992, there were a series of rapes, abductions, and murders of young women just north of the U.S. - Canadian border. Authorities from Ontario and FBI profile detectives from the United States joined forces to try and capture the monster responsible, but for more than 5 years they came up empty. Then, cops caught a break, a tip that led them to an unlikely suspect. A blond, blue-eyed accountant who lived with his beautiful wife in a quaint pink house in the suburbs. They were sure they had their man, but the saga was far from over. Disturbing videotapes were discovered, and the public learned the sordid details of the crimes - and who else was involved. It sent shock waves throughout the country... and the world.6.5/10
- StarsDonnie WahlbergCasey JordanMary Ellen O'TooleRevisiting the twisted lives of some of the most frightening, diabolical characters in recent history. The stories trace the heinous, criminal acts of these elusive miscreants and the eventual road to justice.Far from great, but these shows do show enough information on these crimes to make them well worth watching if you have interest. 6.5/10
- DirectorPatty JenkinsStarsCharlize TheronChristina RicciBruce DernBased on the life of Aileen Wuornos, a Daytona Beach prostitute who became a serial killer.I actually wasn't as big on this film as many others were. While the performances by both Theron and Ricci were great, the script itself was a little weak in my view. The talk around the film when it came out was often more interesting than the actual film was. Patty Jenkins in my view is definitely an overrated director. Nonetheless, worth a watch if you're into the subject matter. 6.5/10
- DirectorJohn PeyserStarsJaime Lyn BauerAldo RayDennis OlivieriA depraved religious fanatic sets out to punish all the "immoral" women who have posed for the center-fold of a men's magazine.This is basically an early slasher film. As far as low budget horror films of the time go, this really isn't bad. It's a sleazy drive-in style horror thriller. Basically all the male characters are perverted jerks and all the women are somewhat loose. If you're into these kinds of low budget exploitation films, this one's worth a look. 6.5/10
- DirectorMichael MannStarsWilliam PetersenKim GreistJoan AllenFormer FBI profiler Will Graham returns to service to pursue a deranged serial killer dubbed "the Tooth Fairy" by the media.Based upon the book Red Dragon, this was the first film based upon the Hanibal Lecter novels by Thomas Harris. Here an FBI profiler searches for the Tooth Fairy. This is a good film, and does have some very similar scenes to the well loved Silence of the Lambs. Both the 2002 remake Red Dragon, and this earlier version are worth checking out if you're interested enough. The film is well acted and it was written for the screen and directed by Michael Mann, of Heat (1995) and Last of the Mohicans fame. This is in my view, overall easily the 2nd best film based on Dr. Lecter. 7.5/10
- DirectorJonathan DemmeStarsJodie FosterAnthony HopkinsScott GlennA young F.B.I. cadet must receive the help of an incarcerated and manipulative cannibal killer to help catch another serial killer, a madman who skins his victims.Without doubt the most well known and respected of all the modern serial killer films, and with good reason. While most point to the acting of both Hopkins and Foster as the main strength, the script is also very well written for the screen, and the entire atmosphere, well chosen music, and suspenseful pacing provided by director Jonathan Demme is nothing short of fantastic. To me it is really Demme's work here that separates this film from the pack. Anyway you slice it, you must see this monster if you're interested in serial killer films. I saw it in the theatre during it's original run, as many did. In fact at the time, Silence set an all time box office record for an R rated film. 8.5/10
- DirectorRidley ScottStarsAnthony HopkinsJulianne MooreGary OldmanLiving in exile, Dr. Hannibal Lecter tries to reconnect with now disgraced F.B.I. Agent Clarice Starling, and finds himself a target for revenge from a powerful victim.While this Silence of the Lambs sequel is fairly good, it really doesn't touch the original. 7/10
- DirectorBrett RatnerStarsAnthony HopkinsEdward NortonRalph FiennesA retired FBI agent with psychological gifts is assigned to help track down "The Tooth Fairy", a mysterious serial killer. Aiding him is imprisoned forensic psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter.A prequel to Silence of the Lambs, and remake of Manhunter. Much like Hannibal, it is pretty good, but it fails to reach the heights of Silence of the Lambs in terms of an overall film. 7/10
- CreatorBryan FullerStarsHugh DancyMads MikkelsenCaroline DhavernasExplores the early relationship between renowned psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter and a young FBI criminal profiler who is haunted by his ability to empathize with serial killers.There are some great moments in this series, but also a lot of ridiculousness. 6.5/10
- CreatorAlex KurtzmanJenny LumetStarsRebecca BreedsMichael CudlitzJayne AtkinsonA look at the personal story of FBI agent Clarice Starling, as she returns to the field about a year after the events of The Silence of the Lambs (1991).A spinoff series that follows Agent Starling soon after her solo takedown of Buffalo Bill. The series is mostly predictable, topically trendy & stereotypical, and overall quite lame in comparison to the SOTL film. A few of the actors are decent, including the lead, but fire the writer(s) and make it less PG-13 and you may actually have something here. 5.5/10
- DirectorCharles ChaplinStarsCharles ChaplinMady CorrellAllison RoddanA suave but cynical man supports his family by marrying and murdering rich women for their money, but the job has some occupational hazards.A brilliant and funny film. Some have even called this Chaplin performance the greatest acting in the history of film. Of course this film came out long before the term serial killer was even a thing. Here he's called a mass killer, and it's also hard to argue with his character's assessment that governments of the world are truly the biggest of all mass killers, (Now referred to as serial killers.). In typical Chaplin fashion, this film often challenges and questions the integrity of various powers/authorities. Truly though this is sort of a sweet film at its heart, as most Chaplin films are. A dark comedy with heart, but in truth I feel this film is much more than a dark comedy. There is a much grander subtle narrative in this film. Many a well known critic even have often drastically underrated the writing, the in fact brilliant storytelling of Chaplin. He was in truth one of the first great master storytellers in the history of film, and he really doesn't often get the credit he deserves in this regard. He is more known for his comedic brilliance and comedic writing, but overall the man was extremely brilliant and talented beyond measure. Storytelling itself was really Chaplin's greatest talent in my view. Not just in the comedic sense, but in an intellectual sense. To me, this is definitely an intellectual film even much more than it is a dark comedy, and overall one of Chaplin's greatest films.
As far as this goes for this list, there are few kills actually shown or fully known of for certain in the film. Much is left to the imagination in this regard. Though it does contain what is probably one of the funniest and most creative kill scenes in cinematic history that ends with a dead Police Detective on a train. It doesn't matter if you like serial killer films or not. If you like mature classic films at all, then you definitely should see Monsieur Verdoux. It's simply a brilliant piece of 1940's art. 9/10 - DirectorAlbert HughesAllen HughesStarsJohnny DeppHeather GrahamIan HolmAfter five ritualistic murders are committed in 1888 London, Inspector Abberline's assignment is to investigate the "Jack the Ripper" murders. Along with a string of mutilated prostitutes, he uncovers a conspiracy involving the government.Artsy and certainly an overall unique style for the subject matter, that being serial killer Jack The Ripper. I thought the film was actually pretty good. 7/10
- DirectorRoger VadimStarsRock HudsonAngie DickinsonTelly SavalasCalifornia State Police Captain Sam Surcher investigates a string of teenage-girl murders at Oceanfront High School.This early 70's cult classic was loosely adapted from a novel, written and produced for the screen by Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry. It was the first American film by French director Roger Vadim of And God Created Woman and Barbarella fame. In fact Brigette Bardot was offered the female lead, but was unable to get out of a prior commitment. Angie Dickinson ended up with the part instead. Of all the lesser known serial killer films out there, this is definitely one of the greatest in my mind. In fact in 2012 Quentin Tarantino listed this film as one of the 12 best films ever made. While I wouldn't go quite that far, I do love this film to some degree, and I can understand his appreciation. You must remember the time period for one thing while watching the film, and know that Vadim was a French director who had become known for over sexualizing women on film. Sexual liberation in 1971 was a fairly accepted and important theme of the time for many, in French & American culture especially. This film is unique and somewhat fun, all amidst an array of taboo subjects (Taboo for the masses that is.). Part dark comedy, part murder mystery, Pretty Maids All In A Row is a film all its own and of its time. Funny, sexy and interesting, I say it's a must see for cult film lovers and those who enjoy offbeat serial killer films. Perhaps it's important to note that this film is not based on a real serial killer, and is purely fiction. 8/10
- DirectorDominic SenaStarsBrad PittJuliette LewisKathy LarsonA journalist duo goes on a tour of serial-killer murder sites with two companions, unaware that one of them is a serial killer himself.This was the first time I ever remember Brad Pitt. Sure, he had done a few films previous to this that I had seen, but those parts at the time didn't overly standout to me. However after watching this film, you may never forget the name Early Grayce, partly because of Pitt's great performance, but also because of the way Juliette Lewis yells his name so often. Anyway, if you're into serial killer films, you need to watch this one. There are some pretty great moments, and overall it is a quality film. Well known film critic Roger Ebert at the time called both Pitt and Lewis' performances, among the best he had ever seen. The film also sports one of David Duchovny's earliest starring roles. I don't love this film overall, but it is good, and well worth watching. Pitt's performance alone will keep you watching, at least that's my bet. Again this film is not based on real killers, but nonetheless is definitely interesting regarding the subject. 7/10
- DirectorAlfred HitchcockStarsAnthony PerkinsJanet LeighVera MilesA Phoenix secretary embezzles $40,000 from her employer's client, goes on the run and checks into a remote motel run by a young man under the domination of his mother.It would be blasphemous not to include this on the list, would it not? Let's face it, Norman Bates is among the world's most well known fictional serial killers. The fact is however, that Norman and the entire story itself are based upon a book, which is a fictionalized version of one of histories most notorious serial killers, Ed Gein. Truth be told, the parts that are the sickest, and perhaps the hardest to believe in the film, are just a small snippet of the actual deranged crimes committed by the real life Ed Gein. In fact many of the most well known fictional serial killers were actually inspired by the true crimes of Gein. Norman Bates of course, but Gein was also the real life version of Leatherhead from the Chainsaw Massacre films, and The Silence of the Lambs' Buffalo Bill was partially inspired by Gein.
I appreciate the film a lot, but Psycho isn't actually even near my favorite Hitchcock film. I really love a few others a lot more, however for it's time you really have to give this film it's due. Being that it was a film from the well loved and already greatly accomplished filmmaker. Psycho broke barriers in what was accepted in American cinema from that moment in time onward. For this reason alone, it's a monumentally important film. In 1960, this was a pretty messed up film that sent shockwaves through the general public. The fact that surprised many at the time however is that Psycho was not being regarded as a depraved film that people should stay away from. The film was actually a huge success and was up for four Oscars. The critics mostly gave mixed reviews, perhaps mostly because of it's strange and deranged central Norman Bates character, but the public ate the film up. Try to imagine how fresh and strangely interesting of a character Norman was compared to almost anything else in popular American cinema of the time. It's hard to imagine really, because it was such a different time, and Norman is such a different and deviantly sick character. Any way you look at it, the horror genre definitely owes a lot to what is often called the first slasher film. Without doubt, Psycho boasts the worlds most widely known kill scene in cinematic history, and it likely always will.
The film has spawned prequels, a remake, sequels and even multiple television series. It's effect on the future of the horror genre is legendary. I will not list the rest of these here, as for one, all of them were made only after Hitchcock's passing, and mainly because none of the others are of any real significant note in regard to this list, though some are certainly worth watching. Perhaps at some point I will list my ratings of the sequels and such right here, but for now I'll just rate the king of them all. 8/10 - DirectorAlfred HitchcockStarsJon FinchBarry FosterBarbara Leigh-HuntA serial murderer is strangling women with a necktie. The London police have a suspect, but he is the wrong man.Frenzy is another Alfred Hitchcock film involving a serial killer. Some consider this to be Hitch's last great film. Personally I don't feel this is among Hitchcock's best works, but nonetheless it still is a pretty entertaining film. If you're interested in seeing all the good serial killer films out there, you certainly shouldn't skip this one. It's well worth a watch. It has a few weak parts in my view, but mostly it is a good, interesting film. 7.5/10
- DirectorJean RollinStarsFranca MaïBrigitte LahaieJean-Marie LemaireA runaway criminal breaks into an eerie chateau, taking its two frightened chambermaids hostage. As night falls, a group of mysterious aristocratic women arrive and the criminal begins to realize the women are hiding a sinister secret.A hauntingly surreal dreamlike film by French writer/director Jean Rollin, known mostly for vampire erotic horror.
Is it a serial killer film? Well yes, it basically is. I don't want to spoil the plot, or the surprises that await anyone who has not yet seen this wonderfully decadent film. So I'll try not to. There is actually a bit of a theme beneath this film that is somewhat similar to that of The Infernal Trio also on this list. Rather than elaborate on this, I'll leave it up to you to see it for yourself, and draw your own conclusions.
The reason I think this film belongs on my list here, is simply because the main subject really is dark obsession, and the main obsession here is bloodlust. I believe that this is among the most effective films ever made in conveying the feeling of impending menace, all because of the dark dreamlike French romanticism that is captured so well here. The film comes off like a sort of darkly beautiful poem that is quite unique, deviant, artistic, sexy and strange, all at the same time. The atmosphere and development give the viewer an amazing sense of being apart of, and in sharing something very sinister and secretly intimate with the decadent characters. In this way the film is quite amazing. The film to me is interesting in many ways. The entire feel of the film is not something easily accomplished with the minimal budget it has, but here Rollin and all involved really go far beyond what one would expect from a low budget French erotic horror of the time, or of any time mind you. To me the film is a special one for sure in multiple ways. If you like horror and/or serial killer films and don't mind some French style nudity, I definitely strongly recommend this often misrepresented gem.
Be aware before watching though that this is an old, very low budget film. Don't go in expecting The Silence of the Lambs. If you're going to watch it, watch it for what it is. If you give it an honest chance, you too may understand why I think it is a special, and somewhat brilliant film. 8/10 - DirectorMartin ScorseseStarsRobert De NiroJodie FosterCybill ShepherdA mentally unstable veteran works as a nighttime taxi driver in New York City, where the perceived decadence and sleaze fuels his urge for violent action.What can be said about this descent into madness that already hasn't been said? It's one of the great dark classics. Here are a few factual notes that are of interest for this list.
In the coffee and pie scene, Travis Bickle, (Played by Robert De Niro) orders apple pie with melted cheese. When real life serial killer Ed Gein was arrested, he asked the police for a slice of apple pie with melted cheese in exchange for a full confession.
Travis Bickle's attempted assassination of Senator Charles Palantine in this film inspired John Hinckley, Jr.'s real life attempted assassination of U.S. President Ronald Reagan on March 30th, 1981. Prior to the crime, Hinckley had been stalking Jodie Foster at Yale University, due to his obsession with her character Iris in this film. In a letter wrote to Foster, he told her that he was going to assassinate the President, so he could impress her. Reagan was shot in the chest and wounded by Hinckley, Jr., who was committed to a psychiatric facility when he was found not guilty by reason of insanity in 1982. He was released on September 10, 2016, after thirty-four years in confinement.
This film draws many parallels with real life serial killer David Berkowitz, the 'Son of Sam'. He and Travis were mentally ill ex-soldiers who were disgusted by what they saw as the degradation of mid 1970's New York City, both were insomniacs, both used .44 caliber revolvers, and Berkowitz worked as a taxi driver before famously joining the Post Office. Although Berkowitz had already committed non-fatal stabbings and many arsons before the release of the film in February 1976, he did not begin his shooting spree until several months afterwards. It is unknown whether Berkowitz ever saw this movie, but certainly very possible. There is no doubt that Berkowitz was a somewhat traumatized person due to his family upbringing, but his status as mentally ill has actually often been challenged by professionals. He in fact a number of times was determned to be fit to stand trial and at times has even admitted to toying with the police and psychologists, just as he toyed with the police, the public, and the media with letters during his killing spree. He has actually been professionally analyzed as having above average intelligence. In more recent years during his incarceration Berkowitz pursued education and graduated with honors from Sullivan Community College.
As far as this film goes, I've already mentioned it's status a truly dark classic. 9/10 - DirectorSpike LeeStarsJohn LeguizamoAdrien BrodyMira SorvinoSpike Lee's take on the "Son of Sam" murders in New York City during the summer of 1977 centering on the residents of an Italian-American Northeast Bronx neighborhood who live in fear and distrust of one another.Spike Lee's film revolves not so much upon the Son of Sam serial killer himself, but on the effect his killing spree has upon the people of New York City. It's a fairly interesting film. Lee's portrayal of certain character types shows obvious bias and/or ignorance, just as he so often unjustly criticizes people about being racist, showing that he is clearly far from a level headed person. Nonetheless, he has made a few good films. While Summer of Sam is far from a great film, it is worth a watch, especially if you're interested in serial killers. 6.5/10
- DirectorBruce Seth GreenStarsRichard JordanA MartinezJulie CarmenBased on the true story of Richard "The Night Stalker" Ramirez who terrorized California in 1985 and the two Los Angeles police detectives who try to track him down.Really not bad for a TV film of the time. The film really is very much like Spike Lee's Summer Of Sam that was made 10 years later, in that it shows more the effect that the killings have on the general public, and those close to the case, than it shows anything else. We do however see more of The Night Stalker here than we see the killer in Summer Of Sam. 6.5/10
- DirectorMegan GriffithsStarsLou Diamond PhillipsBellamy YoungAnnalisa CochraneAn account of serial killer Richard Ramírez and his rampage in California during the mid-1980s.A fairly low budget Lifetime film, but surprisingly it actually is a pretty creative and intensely delivered story. Definitely worth a watch if you're into films about serial killers. There is a lot of factual history here about Richard Ramírez, his personal development, and his killings. The film focuses on a fictional lawyer interviewing him in prison however to deliver the backstory of the Night Stalker. All of the prison stuff here is pure fiction as far as I'm aware. Much of his real personality seems to be captured quite well here however by both Lou Diamond Phillips and the script. It is apparently true that Richard was more intelligent than most serial killers, was very cold, manipulative, and was very touchy about certain subjects. His crimes in the film are really only glanced at vaguely, probably because showing the extreme nature of them would be far too much for Lifetime. Anyway, yes, I'm actually praising a Lifetime movie for probably the first time ever. 7/10
- DirectorÁrpád SopsitsStarsKároly HajdukGábor JászberényiZsolt AngerTrue story of a serial killer in 1950-60s Hungary.The Monster From Martfü or Strangled is a Hungarian film, factually based on a serial killer/necrophiliac who terrorized a community in the late 1950's and early 60's. It's a well told and grim film. Definitely worth a look for those with interest. 7/10
- DirectorChris GerolmoStarsStephen ReaDonald SutherlandMax von SydowDuring the 1980s, Soviet authorities hunt for a serial killer who picks his victims in railway stations and commuter trains and lures them into the woods.A strong made for TV film. More of the dramatic sort, rather than a horror. Based on the true story of serial killer Andrei Chikatilo. Child 44 is also based upon the same killer/case, but in my view, this is the better film for certain. 7.5/10
- DirectorDaniel EspinosaStarsTom HardyGary OldmanNoomi RapaceA disgraced member of the Russian military police investigates a series of child murders during the Stalin-era Soviet Union.6.5/10
- DirectorDavid FincherStarsMorgan FreemanBrad PittKevin SpaceyTwo detectives, a rookie and a veteran, hunt a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his motives.Fiction, yes. It is though a noir style serial killer film that can be enjoyed for entertainment, and/or for it's artistic aspects. It's a well crafted film in pretty much every way, and to me, still Fincher's best overall work. 8/10
- DirectorMichael PattinsonStarsEdward James OlmosGeorge DzundzaRoger CrossA San Francisco detective, obsessed with catching a serial killer who has been committing murders for over 20 years, tries to force a suspect into confessing.Loosely based on The Zodiac Killer, but here he is called The Scorekeeper. Some aspects are done with a lot of accuracy to the real life case, and some aspects are entirely fictional. The film is somewhat interesting, but it fails to really add much of anything of great note regarding the real case. Of course, not all that surprising in this sense seeing as how there still is no definitive end to this story/case. 5/10
- DirectorDavid FincherStarsJake GyllenhaalRobert Downey Jr.Mark RuffaloBetween 1968 and 1983, a San Francisco cartoonist becomes an amateur detective obsessed with tracking down the Zodiac Killer, an unidentified individual who terrorizes Northern California with a killing spree.I'm not as big on this Fincher film as many are. I liked it, but I thought it was definitely far from great. There are a few great scenes though for sure. Overall I felt the film was sort of aimless and tired in a way. I've seen it a few times now and still I feel it's fairly good, but really nothing special apart from a few scenes. Obviously with this cast, the acting is great, and with Fincher it looks good, but honestly; I expect more from people and budgets like this. 6.5/10
- CreatorAndrew SodroskiJim ClementeTony GittelsonStarsGethin AnthonyArliss HowardKelly JenretteAn in-depth look at how an FBI profiler helped track down the terrorist Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber.Both seasons so far have revolved around serial bombers, and perhaps not people who are normally associated with being serial killers. Both serial bombers portrayed in the series killed 3 people each. What is most interesting to note for this list is that at one point, the Unabomber Ted Kaczynski was actually looked into by the FBI as a possible suspect in the Zodiac Murders. Ted after all lived in San Fran during the same time period as the confirmed Zodiac murders. Both Ted and the Zodiac Killer are considered to be highly intelligent, have interest in bombs and codes, and both demanded publication of their letters with the threat of further violence. In the end it was found that Ted's whereabouts for at least a few of the Zodiac killings was accounted for, and therefore it would be impossible for him to have committed the Zodiac crimes. Another interesting story about Ted is that many believe he was a victim of the US governments/CIA's MK-Ultra experiments, and that it is the main reason why he turned into the somewhat anti-social criminal that he did. The 1st season on Ted is certainly a little better than the 2nd season, which revolves around the Atlanta Olympic bomber. The 1st season on Ted also shows the possibility of him involved in MK-Ultra. He did take part in what has been described as a brutal psychological experiment at Harvard in the early 1960's, in fact he logged 200 hours in the study, which some believe was a part of MK-Ultra. Ted, who is still alive is a former mathematics professor and is known to be of very high intelligence. Season 1 is certainly worth a look if you're interested. 6/10
Season 1 - 6.5/10
Season 2 - 6/10 - DirectorOliver StoneStarsWoody HarrelsonJuliette LewisTom SizemoreTwo victims of traumatized childhoods become lovers and psychopathic serial murderers irresponsibly glorified by the mass media.Well this is definitely an interesting and pretty great film involving fictional serial killers in my view. I wrote the following review over 10 years ago...
An Exploited Kiss, From The Devil They Born!
Many have been quick to judge NBK as a senseless exploitation film that glorifies violence. When in fact the film is quite obviously a jab at news media and the Hollywood T.V. and film industry for their lack of true depth, and insane glorification of brutal violence. The very propaganda that has led to an extreme level of desensitization for a large percentage of the general public, and as a result, an inevitable increase in violent crimes. For years, Hollywood and other media outlets have been glorifying violence as a progressive means to an end. To the extent that even our own news media reports almost exclusively from the point of view that war is often necessary, and can lead to a positive outcome. While Oliver Stone's film is filled with over the top violence and hilariously profane dialogue, it strikes a very true cord in it's symbolic and open references. NBK also poses interesting questions about the natural instinct of murder, and the overly programed thoughts and reactions of a deeply fabricated society. Mostly, Natural Born Killers is a satire of exploitation, to kick dirt in the faces of the senseless and irresponsible. Not that they would understand the film of course, nonetheless, Stone's bulls-eye is squarely planted on their foreheads. NBK is certainly an entertaining and thought provoking film for open minded individuals. The film is filled purposely with larger than life characters that are wonderfully performed by some of Hollywood's finest actors. Most notably...Tommy Lee Jones, Woody Harrelson, Juliette Lewis, Robert Downey Jr., Tom Sizemore, Edie McClurg and last but not least, Rodney Dangerfield. While NBK certainly is a film that exploits violence, no film this interesting and thought provoking really qualifies as senseless.
"Doesn't anyone out there in Hollywood believe in kissing anymore?" - Mickey Knox
9/10 - DirectorSergio MartinoStarsEdwige FenechAnita StrindbergLuigi PistilliA series of murders are committed near the estate of a degenerate author and his mistreated wife.If you're a fan of European film or more specifically of Italian Giallo's, this one is definitely well worth a watch. It's hard to go wrong with Edwige Fenech (Who often seemed to like clothes far less than most women do.) and a black cat named Satan. 7/10
- DirectorMichael PowellStarsKarlheinz BöhmAnna MasseyMoira ShearerA young man murders women, using a movie camera to film their dying expressions of terror.If you watch this film with all prejudices aside, which could be very hard for most people, but definitely worth it; This film becomes one of the most thought provoking pictures ever made. Many claim this was the far better and more interesting thriller of 1960 than the monster known as Psycho. I for one would mostly agree with that. 8.5/10
- DirectorBong Joon HoStarsSong Kang-hoKim Sang-kyungKim Roe-haIn a small Korean province in 1986, two detectives struggle with the case of multiple young women being found raped and murdered by an unknown culprit.Bong Joon Ho has made plenty of noise lately in film circles, as his 2019 effort Parasite has easily been among the most praised films of the year. His well respected 2003 film Memoirs of Murder definitely fits this list. I'd recommend this based on a real serial killer/rapist tale from the Korean director if you're into the subject. I'll just say that I liked the film, but I definitely didn't love it. 7/10
- DirectorStanley KubrickStarsJack NicholsonShelley DuvallDanny LloydA family heads to an isolated hotel for the winter where a sinister presence influences the father into violence, while his psychic son sees horrific forebodings from both past and future.At first I didn't even consider throwing this film on the list. Upon second thought however, of course it NEEDS to be here. After all, the film wouldn't be quite what it is without Delbert Grady. There is no actual serial killing in the film, but there is a ghost or hallucination of a man who hacked up his entire family. It is also simply put, THE greatest of all horror films. 10/10
- DirectorJohn CarpenterStarsDonald PleasenceJamie Lee CurtisTony MoranFifteen years after murdering his sister on Halloween night 1963, Michael Myers escapes from a mental hospital and returns to the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois to kill again.One of the earlier American slasher films that is well loved. I may not be as big on it as many are, but I do like it. Let me just say that I also appreciate the great ending. For it's time and genre, it really is a fantastic way to end this film. Michael Myers has definitely solidified himself as one of the more famous and loved serial killers in fiction. So a place on this list is guaranteed. 7/10
- DirectorRick RosenthalStarsJamie Lee CurtisDonald PleasenceCharles CyphersWhile Dr. Loomis hunts for Michael Myers, a traumatized Laurie is rushed to Haddonfield Memorial Hospital, and The Shape is not far behind her.As far as fictional serial killer/slasher films go, this really is one of the better sequels out there. It has a similar style to the first film but with a little more pace, there is more humor in this one, and the kill scenes are generally more creative. In my view, it's a pretty fun slasher film. 7/10
- DirectorSean S. CunninghamStarsBetsy PalmerAdrienne KingJeannine TaylorA group of teenage camp counselors attempt to re-open an abandoned summer camp with a tragic past, but they are stalked by a mysterious, relentless killer.Well this sucker has spawned what seems like endless sequels. In my view this original is actually quite good, and at times it's funny to boot. None of the other films in the series have overly thrilled me, but I definitely respect this 1980 slasher. To me the only trip to Crystal Lake really worth taking is right here. 7.5/10
- DirectorWes CravenStarsHeather LangenkampJohnny DeppRobert EnglundTeenager Nancy Thompson must uncover the dark truth concealed by her parents after she and her friends become targets of the spirit of a serial killer with a bladed glove in their dreams, in which if they die, it kills them in real life.I was no more than 10 when I first saw this film. So yeah, fair to say it creeped the hell out of me. Freddy was probably the first serial killer I ever became aware of. Though of course he is fictional, supernaturally existing in dreams and all that kind of jazz, the film still fits here on the list, especially for me I suppose. Anyway, it's a good horror film of the time. I never could get into any of the sequels, prequels, remakes and all that. I've tried here and there, but none of the others that I've seen were really worth the time. This one however definitely is. 7.5/10
- DirectorTobe HooperStarsMarilyn BurnsEdwin NealAllen DanzigerFive friends head out to rural Texas to visit the grave of a grandfather. On the way they stumble across what appears to be a deserted house, only to discover something sinister within. Something armed with a chainsaw.The film has some weakly executed parts here and there. However it also manages to capture some of the most horrifically crazy feeling moments in American film history. In 1974 you can sort of understand how scary this film likely was. Just watch it and see how disorienting and chaotic the ending still sort of feels to this very day. It is a great horror and serial killer film. Strange, flawed for sure in parts, but definitely overall quite great. To me, the films status as a legend is well deserved. 8/10
- DirectorWes CravenStarsNeve CampbellCourteney CoxDavid ArquetteA year after the murder of her mother, a teenage girl is terrorized by a masked killer who targets her and her friends by using scary movies as part of a deadly game.Horror films widely distributed to theatres had almost completely died out until this film came along, and pretty much resurrected the entire genre to some degree. By 1996 you had to live in a big city to see almost any horror film on the big screen. Hollywood no longer seemed to believe that horror had a big enough market for wide releases. Likely only because most of the junk they were peddling was just regurgitated slop, much like today in fact, and people just got bored of their very predictable horror, not of horror overall. Scream however became somewhat of a sensation, especially with the teen and young adult crowd of the time.
It has a decent twist, some funny moments with a fairly fun and somewhat convincing story, pretty strong acting, and a few good horror scenes. At the time it was a pretty fresh feeling film. I saw it in the theatre in 96. Another thing the film had going for it was two very famous and popular actresses of the time. Courtney Cox from the well known and widely watched TV show Friends, and everyone's favorite little girl gone bad girl of the time, the adorable yet somewhat edgy Drew Barrymore. Ever since the success of this film, it seems that Hollywood has concentrated a lot more of their efforts on horror. They still pump out a lot of regurgitated junk, but that's what sales people do. The audience liked this, so let's make the same movie again with a different name. I think Hollywood could actually benefit from having real artists calling many of the shots, rather than the business minded morons who stifle the art of films. Anyway, for many reasons, this film deserves a place on this list.
One of the main things that made this film stand out from the norm was the opening scene. The most popular of all the actors in the film at the time was definitely Drew Barrymore, and it was actually her that read the script, liked it and lobbied for herself to play the first person to be killed in the film. Drew was apparently just like the rest of the Hollywood audience, she was so bored with the common horror films of the day and wanted to change things up and surprise everyone. In every horror film you could always tell early in the film which actor would survive somehow within a very short time. The change up worked wonders for this film and got people talking about it and spreading it's fame. Scream likely never would have achieved the early success the film did without Drew and the opening kill scene with her as the victim. After liking the somewhat fresh and smart script, Drew has recently revealed, “What I wanted to do is to take that comfort zone away. I asked if I could be Casey Becker so that we would establish that rules do not apply in this film right from the beginning.”. Drew did her share of horror films in the 80's and 90's and none were better than this one from start to finish. 7.5/10 - DirectorRichard FleischerStarsTony CurtisHenry FondaGeorge KennedyA series of brutal murders in Boston sparks a seemingly endless and increasingly complex manhunt.Actually a very interesting film in my view. Somewhat fictional, but also somewhat based on real events. A must watch for fans of the serial killer subject matter. 7.5/10
- DirectorMichael FeiferStarsDavid FaustinoAndrew DivoffKostas SommerBoston Strangler: The Untold Story is an intense true-crime thriller about Albert De Salvo, a wise cracking, small time criminal with an unrelenting sex drive, who ultimately falsely confesses to being the strangler that wreaked havoc in Boston during the early sixties. Guided by his manipulative cell mate, who knows more about the murders than he reveals, they devise a plan to gain all of the notoriety from the killings and the money from the reward. Meanwhile, Detective John Marsden, searches out the truth certain that they were not committed by one man. Fighting the bureaucracy of the day, Marsden lets his emotions get the best of him as he follows the trail of the murders.How this film has only a 3.9/10 rating on this site right now is beyond me. It's really not nearly that bad. In fact, it is quite interesting and it's also probably the most accurate film made on the Boston Strangler case so far. The 1968 film is far better entertainment and of better quality for sure, it's a pretty strong film in many ways. But at the same time, the 1968 film has little concern for the reality of the actual true story. So in terms of the facts, this film is actually superior. This is definitely more of a drama than a horror. There really isn't many tense moments in this film. If you're interested in the actual real story and you don't mind your serial killer films being dramas, then this is likely worth a watch for you. The production quality and the acting are nothing special here, but neither are all that bad either. For me, this didn't make the story any less significant or watchable. I found it to be easily watchable in fact, and as I previously said, it's quite interesting. 6/10
- DirectorDuncan SkilesStarsDylan McDermottCharlie PlummerSamantha MathisA picture-perfect family is shattered when the work of a serial killer hits too close to home.I actually thought this was a reasonably good film. I really liked some of it's unique aspects. Worth a look for those who enjoy serial killer based films. 7/10
- CreatorSteven BaigelmanStarsJeremy SistoTaissa FarmigaGabriel LunaA pair of LAPD detectives track down serial killers terrorizing the Sunset Strip.If you're interested in the 1980's much at all, or in serial killer television programs. Watch this one season series. It's far from perfect, but it does push television boundaries and it certainly has some interesting ideas. Definitely worth watching for many. 7.5/10
- CreatorNic PizzolattoIssa LópezStarsVince VaughnColin FarrellRachel McAdamsAnthology series in which police investigations unearth the personal and professional secrets of those involved, both within and outside the law.Season one of True Detective is truly a great story that does revolve around a serial killer investigation. Starring Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey. I rate the first season a 9/10. It's close to a masterpiece in my view. Watch it!
Season two seemed extremely rushed writing wise. In my view, you're better off skipping it. 6/10
Season three was good and is about another serial killer investigation. It's worth watching. I rate season three a 7.5/10 - DirectorJoel CoenEthan CoenStarsWilliam H. MacyFrances McDormandSteve BuscemiMinnesota car salesman Jerry Lundegaard's inept crime falls apart due to his and his henchmen's bungling and the persistent police work of the quite pregnant Marge Gunderson.Yes, Fargo is actually a fictional film, and is more about a kidnapping than murder. Nonetheless the film does feature at least one psychopath who kills a total of 5 people. It's story is also loosely influenced by three different true crimes, including a man in New England who disposed of his wife's body using a wood chipper. Anyway, the film is a classic in my mind and not to be missed at any cost. 9/10
- DirectorBilly Bob ThorntonStarsBilly Bob ThorntonDwight YoakamJ.T. WalshKarl Childers, a simple man hospitalized since his childhood murder of his mother and her lover, is released to start a new life in a small town.Karl Childers is possibly the worlds most lovable serial killer. Far from a typical killer, but still a man who kills at least three people in his life. This is in my view one of the best anti-hero centered films ever made. It's simply a beautiful and powerful film that all should see. 9.5/10
- DirectorBobcat GoldthwaitStarsJoel MurrayTara Lynne BarrMackenzie Brooke SmithOn a mission to rid society of its most repellent citizens, terminally ill Frank makes an unlikely accomplice in 16-year-old Roxy.The film has it's flaws, as most do. This is good thought provoking cinema nonetheless. 7.5/10
- DirectorPatrick BriceStarsKatie AseltonPatrick BriceMark DuplassA young videographer answers an online ad for a one-day job in a remote town to record the last messages of a dying man. When he notices the man's odd behavior, he starts to question his intentions.Quite good despite the minimal budget. For the most part, the film is effective. 6/10
- DirectorMary HarronStarsChristian BaleJustin TherouxJosh LucasA wealthy New York City investment banking executive, Patrick Bateman, hides his alternate psychopathic ego from his co-workers and friends as he delves deeper into his violent, hedonistic fantasies.A pretty great film that I saw originally in the theater. It's kind of funny because this really old aged movie lover I had met in the neighborhood I worked in recommend that I go see it. He told me it was great, and it's kind of funny to even know a real older gentleman who could appreciate a film such as this. We both were huge film lovers though and got lucky in even finding that out about each other, and then ended up recommending amazing films to each other at times.
Anyway, American Psycho is probably the funniest and coldest film centered around a serial killer that has ever come out of American cinema. Much of it is a view of everything the killer sees complete with his lack of ability to feel for others, despite this many of the scenes are made in a very entertaining fashion as the killer enjoys his manipulation and terror causing acts. It's sensational for sure, but still it's definitely interesting, funny and somewhat unique for the time. I suppose if it were based on a real killer, it wouldn't come across as quite so funny. Underneath it's surface however this film is actually a critique and warning about capitalism and a world that is becoming more and more materially/surface focused. 8.5/10 - CreatorJoe PenhallStarsJonathan GroffHolt McCallanyAnna TorvIn the late 1970s, two FBI agents broaden the realm of criminal science by investigating the psychology behind murder and end up getting too close to real-life monsters.I've already watched this series twice all the way through. There are many things I like and a number of things I don't. The writing seems to really range from quite good to quite terrible. Nonetheless most of the scenes with Kemper are good, the Richard Speck episode is decent. The best episode so far was definitely the Manson in my view. It's a series I'll keep watching if they make more, it's certainly interesting enough. BTK has entered the picture and there are rumors that Bundy will as well. 8/10
- StarsGeorge DiCenzoSteve RailsbackNancy WolfeThe investigation and trial of the horrific Tate-LaBianca mass murders orchestrated by the psychotic pseudo-hippie cult leader, Charles Manson.It's been quite some time since I watched this, so I plan to revisit it again soon and then I'll leave some notes on it after that. For now I'm giving it a 7 or so as I do remember it to be quite interesting.
- DirectorNeil RawlesStarsRyan BlakelyMeredith CheesbroughSascha ColeFollows Charles Manson's 'Family' member Linda Kasabian, and her story to what when on at Spahn's Movie Ranch and the final days leading up to the grisly 1969 Tate/La Bianca murders.Worth watching. 7/10
- DirectorMary HarronStarsHannah MurrayMatt SmithSosie BaconThe tragic tale of an all-American girl who was transformed into a cold-blooded killer in the summer of 1969.There's really nothing new here, though there have been a couple critics who've claimed otherwise. You'd think they'd look into the other works based on Manson before saying such a thing, but whatever. You can't trust film critics today. The film is well done in some ways. The acting is pretty strong. But the story itself is unconvincing I would say overall. It lacks the depth to truly understand anything new from this work, or to even really understand the true Manson family dynamic as it actually was. It's the standard Manson telling basically, with more focus on the 3 main women and their apparent victimhood. Though it's not terrible, I really don't see a point to this film. It's all been said and done before. Seems like just another cash-in on the horrific tragedies really, which is sad. Especially because there are many people still alive out there today, who have been affected by the crimes of the Manson family. If you have nothing new to say about something like this, in my view, you're best off just being quiet. 5.5/10
- DirectorQuentin TarantinoStarsLeonardo DiCaprioBrad PittMargot RobbieA faded television actor and his stunt double strive to achieve fame and success in the final years of Hollywood's Golden Age in 1969 Los Angeles.Though the Manson family is part of the film, true history is really not of interest in this purely fictional portrayal. 7/10
- CreatorGlen MorganStarsChloë SevignyJames D'ArcyJames MorrisonFollows Catherine Jensen, a recently promoted homicide detective who enlists the help of Thomas Schaeffer, a forensic psychologist, to track down serial killers and relentlessly seeks the truth behind the disappearance of her brother.Not a great series, but definitely far from all bad as well. I actually found especially episode 5 to 9 to be quite good for the most part. 6.5/10
- DirectorEthan CoenJoel CoenStarsTommy Lee JonesJavier BardemJosh BrolinViolence and mayhem ensue after a hunter stumbles upon the aftermath of a drug deal gone wrong and over two million dollars in cash near the Rio Grande.Not even close to my favorite Coen Brothers film, and overall I find this one generally a little overrated. Nonetheless the film does create some great tension at times and the two main characters are pretty strong. It's a good film for sure, but it's definitely not great in my view. 7/10
- DirectorMario BavaStarsCameron MitchellEva BartokThomas ReinerA masked, shadowy killer brutally murders the models of a scandalous fashion house in Rome.A beautifully shot film that was an inspiration for countless imitators and some successors. Until 1964, horror had never looked quite so lavish as this. A must watch for anyone who enjoys killer films. 8/10
- DirectorJohn McNaughtonStarsMichael RookerTracy ArnoldTom TowlesArriving in Chicago, Henry moves in with ex-con acquaintance Otis and starts schooling him in the ways of the serial killer.To me the realistic feel this film captures is what really sets it apart from the average. The strong acting only helps this realism aspect. 8.5/10
- DirectorMichael FeiferStarsAntonio Sabato Jr.John BurkeKelly CurranThe true story of serial killer Henry Lee Lucas.This film is nowhere near as good as Henry: Portrait. At the same time it is not without some interesting aspects. It does try to stay as close to fact as possible, and in that way the film has value. However it's hard to know a lot of the real story here exactly, because Lucas never did seem to care about being honest about his life of killing. There are actually a few decent performances in this film. However I would recommend this only to people who are very interested in the real Henry Lee Lucas, as this film really doesn't offer enough to the average viewer, or even to the average viewer with interest in horror or serial killer films. 5.5/10
- DirectorScott WalkerStarsNicolas CageVanessa HudgensJohn CusackAn Alaska State Trooper partners with a young woman who escaped the clutches of serial killer Robert Hansen to bring the murderer to justice. Based on actual events.A pretty solid, but yet fairly standard thriller. I once saw a documentary on the real killer this film was based on ('The Butcher Baker' Robert Hansen.), and even that created more tension than this movie did. This is very watchable, but there's nothing special here at all. The only other film about Robert Hansen is a very loosely based version that is honestly quite terrible called Naked Fear. The title might entice some, but trust me, it's garbage not worth anyone's time. 7/10
- DirectorSteve AllenStarsBill CourageRobert HansenLike many Alaskans, bakery owner Robert C. Hansen was known for his hunting abilities. In the early 1980's, however, his taste for hunting took a sinister turn. A growing list of missing persons and the discovery of two dead bodies led the police to begin the search for a killer who raped his victims before turning them loose and hunting them down like animalsA fairly good look at the investigation that brought down Hanson. This is not the even better documentary that I was talking about in the last films notes however. I'm still looking to find the title of that one again.
Very Scary People also do two hours on this killer in season 3, The Butcher Baker episodes. They're also not bad, but this one is slightly better overall.
7/10 - DirectorTodd RobinsonStarsJohn TravoltaSalma HayekJared LetoBased on the true story, two homicide detectives track Martha Beck and Raymond Martinez Fernandez, a murderous pair known as the "Lonely Hearts Killers" who lured their victims through the personals.Somewhat interesting and watchable, but definitely nothing special. 6/10
- DirectorNicholas MeyerStarsPierce BrosnanSaeed JaffreyShashi KapoorFact-based account of a secret society of murderers, and of the man who exposed them in British India 1825.True story of a serial killing cult that goes back 100's of years in India. 6.5/10
- DirectorGeorge StevensStarsCary GrantJoan FontaineVictor McLaglenIn 19th century India, three British soldiers and a native waterbearer must stop a secret mass revival of the murderous Thuggee cult before it can rampage across the land.Based on the same murderous cult as in 1988's The Deceivers. 7/10
- DirectorBill PaxtonStarsBill PaxtonMatthew McConaugheyPowers BootheA mysterious man arrives at the offices of an FBI agent and recounts his childhood: how his religious fanatic father received visions telling him to destroy people who were in fact "demons."This movie has really always bothered me because they had the right cast and a good idea, but the film overall is not convincing enough to be good in my view. With the premise, this could have been great, but sadly it's not. 5.5/10
- DirectorFred WaltonStarsCarol KaneCharles DurningRutanya AldaA psychopathic killer terrorizes a babysitter, then returns seven years later to menace her again.A creepy film that is mostly very good. There are a few somewhat weakly executed parts, but mostly it builds tension extremely well using classic power of suggestion. 7/10
- DirectorRoger SpottiswoodeStarsSidney PoitierTom BerengerKirstie AlleyAn F.B.I. Agent teams up with a tracker to pursue a murderer after he vanishes into the mountains and infiltrates a hiking group.More of a manhunt film than a typical serial killer type of tale. It is definitely a very mainstream Hollywood film too, but it has above average acting, some very good ideas, and it is overall well executed. Far superior to your average Hollywood thriller. It is in ways reminiscent of some older Hitchcock films, but at the same time the overall direction certainly lacks the personality that is often seen in his films. 7.5/10
- DirectorRémy BelvauxAndré BonzelBenoît PoelvoordeStarsBenoît PoelvoordeJacqueline Poelvoorde-PappaertNelly PappaertA film crew follows a ruthless thief and heartless killer as he goes about his daily routine. But complications set in when the film crew lose their objectivity and begin lending a hand.Avant-garde, controversial, funny. 7/10
- DirectorDavid CronenbergStarsChristopher WalkenBrooke AdamsTom SkerrittA man awakens from a coma to discover he has a psychic ability to foresee future events.Very few things that David Cronenberg has ever made could be called typical. I still feel this is one of the better films based upon a Stephen King work. 8/10
- DirectorDavid CronenbergStarsJames WoodsDebbie HarrySonja SmitsA programmer at a Toronto TV station that specializes in adult entertainment searches for the producers of a dangerous and bizarre broadcast.As bizarre as this film is, I don't think there's ever been a better film that revolved around the theme of snuff films. I've long been a fan of Cronenberg and this film is just one of the reasons why. 8/10
- DirectorAlejandro AmenábarStarsAna TorrentFele MartínezEduardo NoriegaWhile doing a thesis about violence, Ángela finds a snuff video where a girl is tortured until death. Soon she discovers that the girl was a former student in her faculty...Good, but not quite as good as its general reputation in my view. 7/10
- DirectorJoel SchumacherStarsNicolas CageJoaquin PhoenixJames GandolfiniA private investigator is hired to discover if a "snuff film" is authentic or not.Unredeeming perhaps as many a critic have said, personally however I enjoy films that challenge my comfort zone. So for me, it worked to a degree. Certainly it's nothing too special, but it's not nearly as terrible as many say it is either. I'm sure I'm not the only person out there waiting for a better film with similar subject matter to come along. 6/10
- DirectorRobert ResnikoffStarsLou Diamond PhillipsTracy GriffithJeff KoberA dedicated L.A. police detective and a psychic must stop a demonic serial killer who was given the powers of resurrection, teleportation and possession.I figure if I put the next film, Fallen on this list, I must also include this film. Mainly because there's little doubt that this film was a huge influence on Fallen. For some, this film will be of interest, for others, not at all. Overall this film certainly could have been better, but there are definitely some good moments. 6/10
- DirectorGregory HoblitStarsDenzel WashingtonJohn GoodmanDonald SutherlandHomicide detective John Hobbes witnesses the execution of serial killer Edgar Reese. Soon after the execution, the killings start again, and they are very similar to Reese's style.Much like The First Power, but overall the execution of this film is far superior. Supernatural serial killer type films are not exactly in short supply, but good ones definitely are. 8/10
- DirectorChuck KonzelmanCary SolomonStarsSean Patrick FlaneryJordan BelfiTom OhmerOn the day of his scheduled execution, a convicted serial killer gets a psychiatric evaluation during which he claims he is a demon, and further claims that before their time is over, the psychiatrist will commit three murders of his own.Very well executed low budget psychological horror film. The story is familiar for certain. However I can't say I've seen such a story told in quite this way. As far as I'm concerned, the film is very effective in what it sets out to do. For the budget especially, it's an impressive piece of filmmaking. The writing here is surprisingly very good, and the acting is also quite strong. 7.5/10
- DirectorOliver StoneStarsMichael CaineAndrea MarcovicciAnnie McEnroeA comic book artist loses his hand, which in turn takes on a murderous life of its own.Extremely low rated on this site, but also it's only been rated by 5,500 or so people. The truth is, despite the ratings of a few morons. This film is funny and actually quite brilliant. A number of critics have also noticed the brilliance herein. Again, certainly not a standard serial killer type film. Definitely so far, very underappreciated. 7.5/10
- DirectorDenis VilleneuveStarsMaxim GaudetteSébastien HuberdeauKarine VanasseA dramatization of the 1989 Montréal Massacre, during which several female engineering students were murdered by an unstable misogynist.An amazing little French Canadian film about the Quebec massacre. Personally I recommend watching everything Denis Villeneuve has made. This guy is among the greatest living directors in the world right now. This is one of the films he made before he became well known. I've seen every feature he's made now. Every single one of them was well worth the watch! 7/10
- DirectorDavid TwohyStarsMilla JovovichSteve ZahnTimothy OlyphantTwo pairs of lovers on a Hawaiian vacation discover that psychopaths are stalking and murdering tourists on the islands.Olyphant and a Hawaiian backdrop highlight a film with a lot of good things, and unfortunately some not so solid parts. 6.5/10
- DirectorCharles LaughtonStarsRobert MitchumShelley WintersLillian GishA self-proclaimed preacher marries a gullible widow whose young children are reluctant to tell him where their real dad hid the $10,000 he'd stolen in a robbery.For its time the style is unique, and the film captures some uncomfortably eerie moments. 7.5/10
- DirectorDon SiegelClint EastwoodStarsClint EastwoodAndrew RobinsonHarry GuardinoWhen a man calling himself "the Scorpio Killer" menaces San Francisco, tough-as-nails Police Inspector "Dirty" Harry Callahan is assigned to track down the crazed psychopath.I'm not a huge Dirty Harry fan really, but the way Clint plays the part is great. The overall series has some pretty weak writing at times, including a few parts in this film. Nonetheless, thanks to Clint's performance and some other good aspects, this original film is certainly well worth watching. 7/10
- CreatorBen WatkinsStarsGarret DillahuntEmayatzy CorinealdiJulian AcostaA morally-corrupt judge suffers a breakdown and believes God is compelling him onto a path of vigilante justice.If it sounds interesting to you, then it's definitely worth watching. 7/10
- DirectorTarsem SinghStarsJennifer LopezVince VaughnVincent D'OnofrioAn F.B.I. Agent persuades a social worker, who is adept with a new experimental technology, to enter the mind of a comatose serial killer in order to learn where he has hidden his latest kidnap victim.Visually is really the only aspect of this film that is special, well and perhaps the D'Onofrio performance as well. In terms of storytelling and scene execution however, the film leaves a lot to be desired. I originally saw it in the theatre and have revisited it at least twice since. For me, I love the look of the film, but overall I feel it's a little weak in too many areas to call it a good film. 5/10