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 – Zodiac (2007)

Trace every key event in Zodiac (2007) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

First Attack of the Zodiac Killer

On July 4, 1969, the Zodiac killer commits a violent attack at a lovers' lane in Vallejo, California. The victims are Darlene Ferrin and Mike Mageau; tragically, Ferrin dies from her injuries, while Mageau survives.

July 4, 1969 Vallejo, California
2

Zodiac's Letter to the Chronicle

Just a month after the attack, the San Francisco Chronicle receives a letter from the Zodiac killer. This correspondence captivates the newsroom and marks the beginning of a media frenzy surrounding the case.

August 1969 San Francisco Chronicle
3

Paul Avery Gets Involved

Paul Avery, a crime reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, feels drawn to the Zodiac case. His interest leads him to share drinks with Robert Graysmith, a cartoonist eager to dive into the mystery.

Post August 1969 San Francisco
4

Graysmith Cracks the Code

As the Zodiac continues to send encrypted messages, Graysmith successfully deciphers one of the codes. This accomplishment captures Avery's attention and solidifies their partnership in the investigation.

Late 1969 San Francisco
5

Lake Berryessa Attack

The Zodiac strikes again in a brutal stabbing at Lake Berryessa, targeting Bryan Hartnell and Cecelia Shepard. Hartnell survives the ordeal, but tragically, Shepard does not.

September 27, 1969 Lake Berryessa
6

Murder of Paul Stine

In a shocking escalation of violence, the Zodiac murders cab driver Paul Stine in San Francisco. This murder deepens the fear and tension surrounding the killer's identity and motives.

October 11, 1969 San Francisco
7

Investigation Challenges

Detectives Dave Toschi and Bill Armstrong delve into the complexities of the Zodiac case. They encounter numerous clues and suspects, including Arthur Leigh Allen, amidst rising pressure and confusion.

1970s San Francisco
8

Avery's Downward Spiral

As the Zodiac case consumes him, Paul Avery battles personal demons, leading to paranoia exacerbated by drugs and alcohol. His mental health declines as the stress from the ongoing investigation mounts.

1970s
9

Graysmith's Obsession

By 1978, Robert Graysmith immerses himself into unveiling the Zodiac's identity. His obsession strains his marriage to Melanie, reflecting the personal costs of his relentless pursuit for truth.

1978
10

Confronting Arthur Leigh Allen

In December 1983, Graysmith's confrontation with Arthur Leigh Allen at a hardware store leaves him unsettled. The encounter, highlighted by Allen's name tag, intensifies Graysmith's fixation on unraveling the case.

December 1983 Vallejo Hardware Store
11

Mageau Identifies Allen

In 1991, Mike Mageau makes headlines when he identifies Allen from a police mugshot, reigniting interest in the cold case. This identification suggests a renewed possibility of solving the Zodiac mystery.

1991
12

Death of Arthur Leigh Allen

Arthur Leigh Allen passes away in 1992, leaving many questions unanswered in the Zodiac case. His death marks a somber turning point in the investigation, cutting off direct queries about his involvement.

1992
13

DNA Testing Fails to Connect

In 2002, DNA tests conducted to potentially match evidence from the Zodiac fail to link with Allen. This scientific result casts further doubt and frustration over the already elusive Zodiac killer.

2002
14

The Legacy of the Zodiac

Ultimately, 'Zodiac' presents a gripping narrative that explores the fear and obsession surrounding one of America's most infamous serial killers. The film ends on a haunting note, leaving the audience questioning the nature of justice and closure.

Last Updated: October 28, 2024 at 17:34

Unlock the Full Story of Zodiac

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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

Characters, Settings & Themes in Zodiac

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Zodiac

More About Zodiac

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More About Zodiac

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