Maniac
Directed by William Lustig
A twisted psychopath displays his victims' scalps on mannequins in his apartment in Bill Lustig's iconic 1980's slasher movie. The pretty women who encounter Frank Zito (super creep Joe Spinell) all wind up dead. But when Frank meets a female photographer named Anna (cult-horror star Caroline Munro), his interest in her - and her affection for him - leads to a battle between his good and bad sides. MANIAC's famous tagline read "I WARNED YOU NOT TO GO OUT TONIGHT," but no matter whether you watch it inside or out, you run the risk of being scared to death.
A twisted psychopath displays his victims' scalps on mannequins in his apartment.
Cast: Joe Spinell, Caroline Munro, Abigail Clayton
Member Reviews
One of my favorites. Mostly because it’s more about the psyche of the killer and from his point of view. Disturbing, yes. A little too close to reality, yes. Good scary watch if you’re into older horror movies, for sure ☺️
Interesting early 80's slasher. Really captures the grit and grime of early 80's New York. What differentiates this slasher from its contemporaries of that era, is that Frank Zito has a very realistic motivation for a serial killer. Unlike the Freddie's and Jason's of the world guys like this do exist which makes it all the more horrific. Great special effects from Tom Savini and a great performance from Joe Spinell which makes his early loss all the more tragic. A great actor from a bygone era.
Enjoyable early 80's slasher. Really captures the sleaze and gritty atmosphere of early 80's New York. What really differentiates this from the typical 80's gore fest is that this gives an all too real reason for Frank Zito's killing spree which I won't go into here for those who have not watched it. Tom Savini excels as always with gory special effects learned during his stint as a combat photographer in Vietnam. The direction is gritty and Guerrilla style which only adds to the fear and tension. Recommended and a sad reminder in what a talent we lost in Joe Spinell who left us far too soon.
I love this so much! Checked every single box for me! Thanks Joe bob never knew this existed now a new fav.. for sure!!
3.5 Skulls. A very good movie starring Joe Spinell who was in The Godfather, Rocky and Taxi Driver. Spinell has some powerhouse scenes in this movie. Maniac is a Shudder gem.