To Catch a Killer

To Catch a Killer
Genre Biography
Crime
Drama
Thriller
Written by Jud Kinberg
Directed by Eric Till
Starring Brian Dennehy
Michael Riley
Music by Paul Zaza
Country of origin Canada
USA
Original language(s) English
Production
Executive producer(s) Jud Kinberg
Jinny Schreckinger
Peter Filion (co-executive producer)
Lance H. Robbins (co-executive producer)
Producer(s) Richard O. Lowry
Patrick Whitley (co-producer)
David McAree (associate producer)
Cinematography Rene Ohashi
Editor(s) Ralph Brunjes
Running time 182 minutes
Production company(s) Creative Entertainment Group
Libra Pictures
Telestories Entertainment Inc.
Distributor FOX
Release
Original network FOX
Original release May 15, 1992 (USA)

To Catch a Killer is a two-part television film from 1992, directed by Eric Till and starring Brian Dennehy and Michael Riley. It is based on the true story of the pursuit of American serial killer John Wayne Gacy.

Plot

As he investigates the missing person report of a teenager named Chris Gant (based on Gacy's genuine final victim, Robert Piest), Des Plaines, IL detective Lt. Joe Kozenczak (Riley) becomes concerned that local businessman John Wayne Gacy (Dennehy) may be responsible for this and well as many other disappearances. However, when he and his team are ready to arrest Gacy, their evidence is viewed as being circumstantial. Worst of all, everyone (including Konzenczak's superiors) view Gacy as a respectable pillar of society. Meanwhile, Gacy himself begins a sadistic game of cat-and-mouse as he tries in every way to manipulate and outwit the police.

After eventually achieving two search warrants, Konzenczak finds a large amount of incriminating evidence, as well as 29 bodies buried throughout John Gacy's property; the remaining 4 are found dumped in a nearby river, including Gant's remains. Afterwards, he is charged with the rape and murder of 33 boys and young men and convicted, being sentenced to death.

Impact/Reception

The film was broadcast in three countries, the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. In general, the film was received well by critics. As a result, Brian Dennehy was nominated for an Emmy Award for "Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Special". In addition, actor Michael Riley and director Eric Till were both nominated for two individual Gemini Awards.

Cast

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