Movie spotlight
The Hillside Stranglers
Police must track down the sadistic duo responsible for the rape, torture and murder of 10 women in the Hollywood Hills above LA. The case that drove homicide detective Bob Grogan to drink and divorce resulted in the longest trial in American history.
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Plot Summary
This made-for-television movie dramatizes the real-life investigation into the serial murders of young women in Los Angeles during the 1970s. It follows the efforts of law enforcement to identify and capture the killers, known as the Hillside Stranglers, while also exploring the psychological impact on the victims' families and the community at large.
Critical Reception
As a made-for-television film, "The Hillside Stranglers" received a mixed to negative reception, often criticized for its sensationalized approach to a tragic true crime story. While some appreciated the attempt to depict the investigation, many found the execution to be melodramatic and lacking in depth.
What Reviewers Say
The film struggled to balance sensationalism with respectful storytelling.
Performances were generally considered adequate but unable to elevate the material.
The plot was often seen as predictable and lacking in suspense.
Google audience: Audience reviews for "The Hillside Stranglers" are scarce, but those available tend to reflect a sentiment that the film is a standard, somewhat uninspired made-for-TV true crime drama that doesn't offer much new insight into the case.
Fun Fact
The film adapts the story of Kenneth Bianchi and Angelo Buono Jr., who were convicted of the murders. The case is also known as the 'Hollywood Ripper' murders.
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