Citizen X (1995)

Absolutely Fantastic

If the ambition is to provide two hours of instantly forgettable, popcorn-munching escapism, it succeeds.

This story has more twists and turns than a second-rate soap opera.

It really made me laugh, but for some moments I was tearing up because I could relate so much.

Somehow, I feel compelled to write this so others opt to not watch the movie or at least watch it without high expectations. I was looking to catch a thriller and enjoy a movie. This title came up as being similar to "Silence of the Lambs". I seriously question the comparison, as this movie didn't contain much suspense and it is trite with poor dialogue, a generic structure, and atrocious accents that don't even sustain themselves throughout the film. The story is reasonably interesting, sure, and the killer himself is okay in his part (probably because he rarely has to open his mouth), but the execution and overall product were nowhere near engaging. I simply cannot agree that there is much to be applauded about the movie, and I don't see many redeeming features of it.Take a pass if you think you're going to hear creepy music, see high-quality performances, and/or witness solid cinematography.

I won't give any spoilers for this amazing film, but I'll say that if you have never seen Stephen Rea before, you'll really appreciate him as an actor in this particular film. I've seen him in a few films in the past, and always appreciated his work but somehow this gem of a film slipped by me until just now. He's simply stellar, and that puts it mildly. His input truly allows the viewer to experience his character's empathy. He should be given more parts in other films, I'd personally like to see him a lot more often. Anyway.. HE is the reason this movie is so excellent as it is. The film it's self, I give 9 stars. It was well written and directed. If you like thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, this is one for you. My taste in films is rather scattered and eclectic, and there are a few that stand out as timeless and I want to watch them again and again. This is one of those films.

A forensic specialist Burakov goes on a hunt for the serial killer responsible for the mutilation and murder of over 50 people, 35 of them children.Although Chris Gerolmo's Citizen X is a made-for-TV film, it doesn't feel like it. Based on a true story, it has plenty of atmosphere and chilling moments. Especially when children vanish from train platforms. As well as being a cat and mouse serial killer film, it interestingly depicts the killer played by Jeffrey DeMunn, who is eerily believable as unassuming Andrei Chikatilo in his home and work environment. In contrast it also illustrates the pressure of the investigator, Viktor Burakov, wonderfully played by Stephen Rea in both his home and work life setting. Burakov finds himself not only in the middle of murders but also tied up in Soviet propaganda and bureaucracy where he forms an unlikely association with Mikhail Fetisov, played memorably by Donald Sutherland. The acting is first rate and also includes Max von Sydow.Opening in 1982, shot in Hungary its captures that European Soviet feel perfectly and the changing political landscape over of the many years of the red tape hampered investigation. As well as the serial killer, under resourced agents, politics there's also another layer around forensics and corruption.Overall, it's a chilling must see riveting watch.

It's 1982 in Soviet Russia. A serial killer is on the loose but few people care when a dumping ground of 8 bodies is found in the woods. Col. Mikhail Fetisov (Donald Sutherland) puts Viktor Burakov (Stephen Rea) in charge of the investigation despite being only a forensics man. He discovers 7 more bodies in the records of the previous incompetent investigator. Secretary of Ideology Bondarchuk (Joss Ackland) claims that there are no serial killers in the Soviet state since it's a decadent western phenomenon. Burakov is opposed by entrenched ideology, corruption and incompetence. Bondarchuk brings in Gorbunov (John Wood) from Moscow to lead the investigation and hunt down homosexuals. The killer is actually a nobody Andrei Chikatilo (Jeffrey DeMunn) who hunts along the train lines. In 1984, Burakov catches him at a train station but the blood test comes back negative and Bondarchuk gets him out as a good party member. With unending support of his wife (Imelda Staunton), Fetisov, psychiatrist Dr. Alexandr Bukhanovsky (Max von Sydow) and finally Perestroika, Burakov is able to catch Chikatilo in 1990.This is made with superior actors and a fascinating story. It's a great different side of a police procedural. Things don't go their way. The killer isn't caught after a short investigation. The beauty of the movie is Burakov's relentless pursuit. He won't give up despite having little support. Stephen Rea is impressive with a human performance and great supporting actors. The FBI story is heart wrenching. This is a superior TV movie.