Barely Scratches the Surface of Bonin's Life
Compay | New Orleans, LA | 02/09/2010
(2 out of 5 stars)
"Freeway Killer only offers a glimpse at the life of serial killer William Bonin, who was responsible for killing no less than 20 young men over a two-year period.
The film was written by David Birke, who had also worked on the serial killer films "Gacy" and "Dahmer." Overall, the film has the vibe of a made-for-cable movie. The majority of the cast had only acted in television, with the exception of film veteran Michael Rooker (Days of Thunder). Scott Leet, while having primarily worked in TV, shows great promise in his portrayal of the serial killer. Leet nails the role that finds him between the rage of a sadistic mentor, and the paranoia of a sociopathic headcase.
What made Bonin notable as a serial killer is that he was the first prisoner in California to be executed by lethal injection. Beyond that, there doesn't seem to be much to warrant having a film dedicated to his crimes. Bonin's own murky past is all but ignored until the film's conclusion; the audience never really understands what motivates his actions. Despite Bonin's history of molesting boys, details of his sexual deviance is also almost entirely omitted from the film as well.
The movie isn't particularly suspenseful, and it never delves into what turned Bonin into a monster in the first place. Beyond Scott Leet's performance, there isn't much else to offer praise for. It's worth a rental, but I wouldn't recommend buying it until after you've watched it and formed your own opinion."
Hi-Def?
J. Baratti | tulsa, OK | 02/17/2010
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Is this in 1080p??...sure doesn't seem like it...it looks like regular dvd quality. The menu looks hi-def but not the movie....."