The new slasher film Catch a Killer puts a stylish spin on the genre. Sure, it's got flashes of grisly murders and forensics but doesn't dwell on details. Instead, it offers a clever twist rare in this sort of movie.
Otto is the youngest person on the police force, a promising prodigy who, because of his age, is not taken as seriously as he should be. He arrives after the seasoned detectives have done their jobs and cleans the crime scene. Otto is leading a charmed life: an interesting job, a beautiful and supportive girlfriend and a baby on the way. He also kills time watching classic slasher movies, claiming they hone his skills.
A series of slayings suggests the same perp, whom Otto sets out to find. In doing so, he uncovers a pattern rooted in his favorite movies. Life gets more dangerous the closer he gets.
Director Teddy Grennan stays in the pulp lane he's established with low budget titles like Wicked Games (2021) and Ravage (2019). He has a good eye, and the film's rapid-fire editing, baroque locations and propulsive music cues add to the mix. They also allow air for charismatic performances by actors Sam Brooks as Otto and Tu Morrow (no kidding) as his patient baby-momma Lex. Tommi Rose also stands out as a sassy detective who's intent on swaying Otto.
Catch a Killer's frames are well-composed within a really narrow aspect ratio, an aesthetic choice that pulls in the viewer. One might see the twist coming or think it too esoteric but, again, Mr. Grennan knows the chorus he's preaching to. Slasher films are an acquired taste, so this is unlikely to appeal to anyone who is not already an aficionado.
The gore is kept to a minimum, the suspense is sharp, and Catch a Killer's brisk pace makes its time well spent. Mostly Catch a Killer kills with charm.
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Catch a Killer. Directed by Teddy Grennan. 2024. From Cold Beer Friday and Galvanized Films. 80 minutes.