Although I’m consistently (and so far, wrongfully) wary of Fincher’s work, he consistently impresses me. His approach is thoughtful and methodological in a day and age when for the most part this has been deemed unnecessary, as consistently content is being dumbed down for audiences. This is to date, his most mature work where he emerces himself and the viewer into investigation, journalism and obssession. His approach is almost clinical, and the only moment of true visceral emotion come in the frightening and unexpected confrontations with the Zodiac himself. The film is one of the most unique crime dramas I’ve seen as it avoids the route of easy emotional payoffs and climaxes. The leads and the unravelling of the mystery is almost inconsequential, as it brings the characters no closer to finding the truth. Fincher puts us into their place, and the film runs on obsession and paranoia rather than the tension that comes with approaching a solution.
The film deals heavily in the intricacies of the human condition in face of extraordinary horrors. More often than not it’s not fear that dominates, but morbid curiosity. For most the Zodiac isn’t a murderor, but a game or a puzzle. The horror of what he does though makes it consequential though, far below the surface I think it’s a more important need to protect yourself and others that is driving them. However, because of the Zodiac’s anonymous nature,this energy is unclear and unfocused. The detachment and frustration are used to mask fear, not only to the outside world but internally supress it so you can continue living your life. This is made apparent when Ruffalo’s character is dissapointed when his favourite suspect is thrown out, he’s not sure if it’s because he was sure he was guilty or if he just wanted it all to end.
Fincher’s cinematography is stunning, and even this early in the year I can’t see it surpassed. At the very least it will deserve it’s nomination come Oscar time. He has a unique signature that permeates through his films, although once again he manages to tone it down bringing his almost hyper impressionistic approach to horror to a cold and clinical study. The performers are also brilliant, every bit counts. Easily the best film of the year for me.
The cinematography is stunning, and even this early in the year I can’t see it surpassed. At the very least it will deserve it’s nomination come Oscar time. He has a unique signature that permeates through his films, although once again he manages to tone it down bringing his almost hyper impressionistic approach to horror to a cold and clinical study. The performers are also brilliant, every bit counts. Easily the best film of the year for me.
