Citizen X (1995)

AKA: NA
Directed by: Chris Gerolmo
Starring: Jeffrey DeMunn, Stephen Rea, Donald Sutherland, Max von Sydow
Country: USA
Language: English (Optional Eng Subs)
Runtime: 01:43:01
Genres: Serial Killers, Detective/Mystery, Rape/Sexual Violence against Women, Old-Young, Based on a True Story

Plot – Spoilers:
Citizen X is based on the serial killer, The Butcher of Rostov/Red Ripper, Andrei Chikatilo, who roamed Russia, Ukraine and surrounding regions, killing over 50 women and children in a span of 12 years. The movie follows the investigative efforts over a decade that eventually led to his capture.

This TV film is one of those not-so-renowned serial killer movies that is actually a gem. The acting’s pretty good and the tension around the investigation always palpable.

Favorite scenes:
Every time Chikatilo is bullied, insulted or laughed at, he picks up his hunting bag and heads out. This is how he deals with unpleasant moments. Most of the world might have a smoke, a drink or head out to a club to cope, but Chikatilo kills. And when he kills, he sneaks up from behind, knocking them out and stabbing them before indulging himself sexually, which shows his timidity where he feels control over them only when they’re close to death.

The scene at the station with the harried-looking cop who has been on duty for 36 hours. There is something sincere about him – whether it’s his dedication or the pain he feels on discovering his cousin’s 8-year-old daughter’s body.