Ted Bundy (2002) ***

Matthew Bright’s Ted Bundy (2002) is a very conflicted and conflicting film. The tone is odd—at times it feels exploitative, at times comedic, other times very straightforward and purposely unremarkable (the desaturated, almost flat look gives it a realism and ‘70s feel). Michael Reilly Burke's committed portrayal of one of America's most famous and charismatic serial killers is quite good and Boti Bliss' performance is also noteworthy. The film can be a bit repetitive, doesn't delve into the character's backstory, and has a weirdly anachronistic score. This is nothing like Bright's over the top Freeway (1996) (review) and honestly doesn't feel like the same filmmaker made it (which is probably appropriate, given the horrific content based on real-life crimes). I can't say I loved the movie, but, for the most part, it's well-made.

Recommended for fans of Henry: Portrait Of A Serial Killer (1986) (review), Man Bites Dog (1992) (review), Maniac (1980) (review), and American Psycho (2000) (review).

Matthew Bright Films Ranked