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Cast: Michael Rooker, James Babson, Helen Wilson, Eileen Dietz, Scott Leet
This is the terrifying true story of William Bonin (Scott Leet), the notorious "Freeway Killer" who, from April 1979 to June 1980, was responsible for the murders of at least 16 young men along the streets and highways of Los Angeles.
William George Bonin was an American serial killer and a twice-paroled sex offender, also known as the Freeway Killer, a nickname he shares with two other serial killers. Between 1979 and 1980, Bonin tortured, raped and killed a minimum of 21 boys and young men, and is suspected of committing a further fifteen. Bonin was convicted and eventually executed in 1996 for 14 of these murders.
The one thing that really makes this film work is actor, Scott Leet who plays the Freeway Killer. His performance as the psychopath is one of the best I have seen from any actor who has ever played a serial killer. The story is simple enough, it is told through Bonin who is telling a woman about her son who Bonin was suspected of killing. The woman is looking for closure and writes a letter to Congress for him in return for a meeting with the infamous killer. The film has it's brutal moments but it also stays a little tame as well not showing much as far as the real nasty stuff Bonin and his partner did. If you like the genre this is an entertaining film and since it is based on a true story it is also very interesting as well. If you are not familiar with this man's bloody rampage you will find this to be as informative as it is disturbing. Michael Rooker also has a small part in the film which gives it a little more star power but clearly this is Leet's film and he owns every scene he is in by being very convincing. I look forward to seeing more work by this talented actor and by everyone involved in the film as well. The story could of been better had it taken the time to give us more information on this man's background but it does toss in a few facts towards the end which comes as no surprise really since it seems like most of these killers all have some sort of a abusive childhood. Freeway Killer is an Independent film that delivers on just the facts without attempting to be glossy like a lot of the Hollywood films do. If you like the serial killer genre or are interested in films like this that are based on true stories then I think you are going to enjoy this one as well.
The film is Available on DVD and BLU-ray and it comes with special features that include:
Audio Commentary with director John Murlowski and writer David Birke
Freeway Killer Captured Featurette
Released by Image Entertainment
**** Out Of *****