Zodiac

Zodiac

Year: 2007

Runtime: 157 min

Language: Chinese

Director: David Fincher

DramaMysteryThrillerCrime

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the San Francisco Bay Area was plagued by a serial killer who signed his letters "Zodiac." Taunting law enforcement with elaborate codes and cryptic messages, the killer claimed responsibility for numerous murders. This account follows the frustrated efforts of several detectives, journalists, and even an amateur cryptographer as they desperately try to decipher the clues and identify the elusive killer, all while their own lives become consumed by the relentless pursuit.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Zodiac yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Zodiac (2007)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Zodiac (2007). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1969-1991

The movie spans from 1969, at the height of the Zodiac killings, through to 1991, when crucial breakthroughs in the case emerge. This time period reflects a troubled era marked by social upheaval, changing media landscapes, and the evolving methods of investigation. The persistent obsession over the unsolved murders captures the fear and confusion of a society grappling with a faceless, elusive threat.

Location

Vallejo, California, San Francisco, Lake Berryessa

Vallejo, California, serves as a pivotal location in the Zodiac investigation, marking the site of the Zodiac killer's notorious attacks. San Francisco becomes a backdrop for the media frenzy that ensues as reporters chase stories tied to the murders. Lake Berryessa, known for its serene beauty, transforms into a chilling crime scene, highlighting the contrast between peace and violence.

🌆 City 🌊 Lake 🏞️ Location

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:32

Main Characters – Zodiac (2007)

Meet the key characters of Zodiac (2007), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul Avery (Robert Downey Jr.)

Paul Avery is a crime reporter whose passion for uncovering the truth leads him deep into the Zodiac investigation. His initial bravado eventually gives way to paranoia and addiction, demonstrating the toll that obsession can take on an individual. Avery's character arc highlights the darker side of media and the emotional strain of chasing sensational stories.

📰 Reporter 💔 Trauma

Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal)

Robert Graysmith is a determined political cartoonist whose fascination with the Zodiac case drives him to pursue the truth relentlessly. His character depicts intelligence and creativity as he uncovers clues, though his obsession puts a strain on his personal relationships. The film portrays Graysmith's journey as both enlightening and isolating.

🎨 Artist 📚 Investigator

Dave Toschi (Mark Ruffalo)

Detective Dave Toschi is a seasoned investigator who becomes entwined in the Zodiac case's complexities. His dedication to solving the murders evolves into a struggle against bureaucracy and personal doubts. Toschi's character represents the challenges law enforcement faces when confronting an elusive enemy, emphasizing the human side of police work.

🚔 Detective 🌐 Authority

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:32

Major Themes – Zodiac (2007)

Explore the central themes of Zodiac (2007), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕵️‍♂️ Obsession

Obsession is a central theme in 'Zodiac', as characters fixate on unearthing the identity of the Zodiac killer. Robert Graysmith's obsessive nature drives him to delve deeper into the investigation, often at the expense of his personal life. This theme highlights the fine line between determination and madness, as the pursuit of truth spirals into an all-consuming quest.

🔍 Mystery

'Zodiac' immerses the audience in the depths of mystery surrounding the Zodiac killer's identity. The film intricately weaves together clues, cryptic letters, and chilling attacks, creating an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue. This enigma reflects broader societal fears about safety and the unknown, resonating with audiences even today.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice pervades 'Zodiac', as both law enforcement and civilians grapple with the pursuit of the killer. The film raises questions about the effectiveness of the justice system and the concept of closure. Despite the relentless investigation, the unresolved nature of the Zodiac case leaves viewers pondering the complexities of justice and accountability.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:32

Unlock the Full Story of Zodiac

Don't stop at just watching — explore Zodiac in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Zodiac is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Zodiac Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Zodiac, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Zodiac Summary

Zodiac Timeline

Track the full timeline of Zodiac with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Zodiac Timeline

More About Zodiac

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Zodiac: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Zodiac

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