Copycat (1995)

Directed by: Jon Amiel | 118 minutes | drama, crime, thriller | Actors: Sigourney Weaver, Holly Hunter, Dermot Mulroney, William McNamara, John Rothman, Harry Connick Jr., JE Freeman, Will Patton, Shannon O’Hurley, Bob Greene, Tony Haney, Danny Kovacs, Tahmus Rounds

It’s a mystery that Sigourney Weaver never belonged to the Hollywood elite’s most famous stars. The Australian actress can handle just about any film genre and gives every picture, no matter how bad, added value through her appearance.

Weaver plays Helen Hudson, author of ‘True Crime books’. Due to a traumatic experience, Hudson suffers from agoraphobia: agoraphobia. Bitter and sad she spends her days in her house, which has become a kind of prison for her because of her phobia. When brutal murders are committed by a new serial killer, Hudson sets out to help the police with her knowledge. Detective Monahan (Hunter) has some skepticism, but decides to accept Hudson’s help anyway.

‘Copycat’ is one of those Hollywood films in which everything is right, but which is still missing something. The acting is very strong, the tension is built up well and the editing and camera work are smooth. Still, the film doesn’t quite stick, due to a few points of criticism. For example, the climax of the print is far too unbelievable and boring. ‘Copycat’ aims very much at realism and originality, but the predictability with which the film ends detracts a lot from the print.

In addition, ‘Copycat’ has to contend with too much information. Because the murders in the film are based on real crimes committed, they are referenced all the time. That shouldn’t be a problem, but if you consider that the film refers to many massacres, it gets confusing. When the characters from the film find another victim, they fire another short history about the killer. In quick monologues, you’ll hear some trivial facts about notorious real-life serial killers like Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy and Jeffrey Dahmer. People who have never heard of these serial killers, very famous in America, will soon lose their mind.

But against the above points of criticism, there is a very successful thriller. As mentioned, the acting is excellent. Weaver stars as an embittered and damaged woman. The actress portrays a complex character who has become a pessimistic person due to her fears and addiction to painkillers and alcohol. So not a typical ‘good guy’. Weaver knows how to create a real character. A human being of flesh and blood, with bad but also good sides. The way in which the actress portrays her character’s agoraphobia also testifies to Weaver’s great class.

With Holly Hunter as Weaver’s co-star, ‘Copycat’ makes a lovely couple. Hunter plays a beautiful role as a strong woman. Hunter’s character isn’t overwhelmingly likable either. The methods used by the agent are not always pure. The verbal showdowns between her and Weaver produce fireworks. It is precisely the sharp edges of these characters that give ‘Copycat’ a spicy atmosphere.

The entourage of secondary characters also creates an exciting atmosphere. Mulroney, Conick Jr. and McNamara deliver attractive play. The role of John Rothman is a breath of fresh air. After a whole series of stereotypical rioters and effeminate men, Rothman manages to present a normal portrayal of a homosexual. ‘Copycat’ is clearly a progressive film, with the portrayal of two strong women in the lead roles and a respectful approach to homosexuality.

Director Jon Amiel has paid a lot of attention to character development. A good move, because the viewer can empathize so much better. Amiel makes frequent use of the suspense way. The term: ‘less is more’ therefore seems to fit perfectly for ‘Copycat’. Even in apparently dull moments, Amiel manages to raise the tension sky-high. For example, there is a scene in the film where Weaver wants to grab a newspaper. The newspaper is in a hallway two meters from Weaver’s door. Because of her agoraphobia, the woman does not dare to walk out the door. Desperate, she grabs a broom and tries to grab the newspapers. The threatening music and the swishing camera make this scene an oppressive and exciting moment.

‘Copycat’ is a suspenseful, expertly crafted thriller. The film does everything it’s supposed to do well. Yet something is gnawing. To fully enjoy the film, some knowledge about serial killers is required. ‘Inexperienced’ viewers will quickly become dizzy from the amount of information. Furthermore, the imitation of real murders has the effect that the print itself lacks an identity of its own. If ‘Copycat’ itself had come up with a fictional murderer with some more original crimes, the film would have had more impact.

Nevertheless, thriller fans should not miss this production. ‘Copycat’ is an extremely enjoyable film that will regularly scare you.