Based upon real recordings, tells the story of interviews between an FBI profiler and Ted Bundy in his final years.
Ted Bundy is one of the most notorious serial killers in history. There have been numerous books and films about him. It almost feels like there is an oversaturation of Ted Bundy in the past couple of years. Many past adaptations of his life seem to cover the same key points, his killings, and his trial. No Man of God decides to take a different approach to Bundy. This film decides to take Bundy in a more intimate and chilling environment as he is waiting for his execution. No Man of God is the most chilling adaptation of the notorious serial killer.
On the surface of No Man of God, its two men sitting in a room talking to each other. However, this film is more than that. No Man of God is an intricate battle of wits. If you are someone who loves Netflix's Mindhunter, you are going to love this movie. The dialog is complex and fascinating. I was left on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to be said next. Furthermore, the way this film portrayed the complicated relationship between Agent Hagmaier and Bundy was fascinating to watch. You see the mental turmoil that Hagmaier is going through by having numerous conversations with Bundy feels grounded. At the end of the film, you ponder who influenced who. Amber Sealey has brought to life the most grounded and fascinating look into Ted Bundy.
With the majority of this film being in a single setting, the acting really shines through and carries this film. Elijah Wood and Luke Kirby give powerhouse performances. This is some of the best work I've seen from both actors. The pair had excellent chemistry with one another. Wood masterfully shows the eager FBI analyst who wants to learn from Bundy while also being torn apart by interacting with him. The emotional turmoil of interacting with Bundy and trying to keep faith in your religion Wood pulls off perfectly. Kirby is chilling as Ted Bundy. He pulls off the perfect balance between charming, intelligent, and creepy perfectly. Kirby's gives the best adaptation of Bundy that I've seen in film.
For this being an independent film, this film looks gorgeous. Every shot you feel the eeriness of Ted Bundy around you. Furthermore, this film has a lot of really unique shots that are masterfully edited together. My only complaint with this film is that there is one scene at the end that feels out of place with the rest of the film. If you watch the film, you will know the scene that I am talking about. Other than that I heavily enjoyed this film.
All in all, No Man of God is a complete package. This film has excellent directing, writing, and acting that will leave you questioning your humanity. Furthermore, you may not learn anything new about Bundy, but the film provides a fascinating psychological look into the notorious serial killer.
I am giving No Man of God, an A-.
