David Fincher's Zodiac: Cinema of Investigation and (Mis)Interpretation

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David Fincher's Zodiac (2007) is a respected film of the early twenty-first century, combining the policier genre and investigative reporter film. This book is the first book-length work of criticism dedicated to the film, focusing on early influences, narrative treatment, game theory, data and hegemony, music, and sound in cinema. It will interest scholars, fans, and enthusiasts of cinema and true crime.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2023
Publisher: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press

Introduction:

David Fincher's Zodiac (2007), written by producer James Vanderbilt and adapted from the true crime works of Robert Graysmith, stands as one of the most revered films of the early twenty-first century. As the second film featuring a serial killer (and the first based on factual events) directed by Fincher, Zodiac remains a remarkable achievement in a diverse but stylistically cohesive career. While undeniably rooted in the genre of crime drama, the film also seamlessly blends elements of the policier genre and the investigative reporter film. However, despite its significance and popularity, scholarship on Zodiac has been relatively limited.

Purpose of this Collection:

This collection is the first comprehensive book-length work of criticism dedicated to the film. The first section delves into the early influences that shaped the making of Zodiac. The second section examines the film's distinctive approach to narrative, exploring its unique storytelling techniques and the way it weaves together multiple storylines. The book concludes with a section that examines game theory, data analysis, the Zodiac's treatment in music, and the use of sound in cinema. By offering new avenues of inquiry and building upon established scholarship, this book aims to appeal to scholars of cinema and true crime, as well as fans and enthusiasts of these genres.

Early Influences:

In the first section, the authors explore the various influences that shaped the development of Zodiac. They examine the works of authors and filmmakers who have explored similar themes of serial killers and the pursuit of justice. The authors also discuss the historical context in which the film was produced, including the rise of true crime journalism and the public's fascination with unsolved mysteries. Through a close analysis of the film's script, visuals, and sound design, the authors shed light on the ways in which these influences were incorporated into the final product.

Unique Treatment of Narrative:

The second section delves into the film's distinctive treatment of narrative. The authors analyze the way in which Zodiac weaves together multiple storylines, including the investigation of the Zodiac killer and the personal lives of the detectives involved. They explore the use of flashbacks, flash-forwards, and nonlinear storytelling to create a sense of confusion and tension, as well as to deepen the characters and their relationships. The authors also discuss the film's use of symbolism and metaphor, including the use of animals and nature to represent the killer's psyche and the detectives' emotional journey.

Game Theory, Data, and Hegemony:

In the third section, the authors examine the film's engagement with game theory, data analysis, and hegemony. They discuss the ways in which the detectives use these tools to try to solve the case, as well as the limitations and ethical considerations of such approaches. The authors also explore the role of media and popular culture in shaping public perception of the case and the detectives' efforts to solve it. They argue that the film offers a critical commentary on the power dynamics between law enforcement, the media, and the public, and the ways in which these power structures can influence the pursuit of justice.

Treatment of Music and Sound in Cinema:

The final section of the book focuses on the film's treatment of music and sound in cinema. The authors analyze the use of music to create atmosphere and tension, as well as to represent the characters' emotional states. They discuss the film's use of sound design to create a sense of realism and immersion, including the use of sound effects and dialogue. The authors also explore the ways in which music and sound are used to create a sense of place and time, particularly in the film's depiction of San Francisco in the late 1960s.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this collection offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of David Fincher's Zodiac. By exploring the film's early influences, unique treatment of narrative, engagement with game theory, data analysis, and hegemony, and treatment of music and sound in cinema, the authors provide new avenues for scholarship and appreciation of this remarkable film. This book will interest scholars of cinema and true crime, as well as fans and enthusiasts of these genres, and will contribute to our understanding of the complex and enduring legacy of Zodiac.

Weight: 435g
Dimension: 231 x 153 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781683933281