Who is...The CloveHitch Killer?

Director Duncan Skiles in his MOVIE debut, answers that question rather smartly early on in the film making this not a "whodunnit" but instead an almost character study on the killer himself (Dylan McDermott) and a familial take from his teen son who suspects the worst.

Let me say here that CloveHitch is not a stellar film or an instant classic but it is a damn good one and a perfect example of how great acting and the RIGHT kind of production and cinematography can make a film better than it should have been. We start out with young Tyler (Charlie Plummer) in a boy scout uniform and his father the scout leader. Very quickly Tyler finds some evidence that points to his dad being the culprit, the infamous CloveHitch Killer who was never caught. Their are some tense moments along the way as Tyler enlists the help of the outsider girl (Samantha Mathis) who just so happens to be an expert on CloveHitch.

A huge strength here is in the almost lazy, sprawling filmwork that tightens up a notch every so often and the pacing which is never fast or slow but methodical, almost clinical in it's never wavering onslaught toward a bang-up conclusion. The film quality at times seems much older than the time represented but this turns out to be a strength as the whole affair has a bit of a documentary feel to it. This is not a flashy story and as such the production is very bare bones and not flashy, perfectly fitting for a serial killer tale.

"We all have thoughts son, but that's all they are just thoughts. Monkey stuff."

The real reason to watch this film however is quite simply the spot on, perfect portrayal by Dylan McDermott as you have never seen him before. He literally embodies the role of the killer in such a laid back, realistic way. For me the McDermott has always been another D.B. Sweeney, you know good and capable but never stellar or standing out... until now! He nails it so good that he made the movie for me while handing in his best performance ever. Rounding out the cast are Samantha Mathis and Charlie Plummer who both give solid, believable perfomances as well. There is a side plot about a disabled Uncle who at least Dad is spinning

As with most good films, all is not great and Clovehitch is no exception. Among the gaffs here for me were first off some incorrect serial killer lore. Serial killers in real life usually travel in an effort not to be recognized whereas Clovehitch strikes, loiters and lingers right smack in his own hometown. Tyler while well portrayed is a mega dumb character who does just about everything wrong. Still the film's strength hold true and make for a good, entertaining 90 minutes.

All in all this is a really good serial killer movie with a performance of a lifetime by star Dylan McDermott. Some reality issues and Tyler's stupidity can not hold this one down. Check it out when you get the time.

4/5

88jrd