Recently, I've finally watched the 20 episode television series of Kolchak, after having had the DVD collection for years. I had heard it mentioned often when The X Files was at its peak. I thought the series was excellent and could understand why it had achieved cult status over the past 50 or so years; it had a late night pulpy horror charm.
However, I'd never seen the made-for-television movies which predated the series so, whilst in the right mindset, I thought I'd give it a go.
This movie is over 50 years old and has aged pretty well.
Kolchak: The Night Stalker is the 1972 movie which follows a down on his luck investigative reported Carl Kolchak, exploring the murders of young women in Las Vegas. He sees it as a modern day vampire case whilst the local law enforcement see it as a serial killer. Kolchak is determined to find out the truth, which is indeed stranger than fiction.
The first thing to note is that the production values on this are high; the crowd scenes, the main strip car scenes and creepy house setting are well realised. It also offers a window into the past of Las Vegas, showing areas that, I'm sure, have changed and either been cleaned up and gentrified or left to decay.
Also, Kolchak's enlightened attitude to his girlfriend's showgirl night work is enlightening and especially ahead of the curve from the time. His characters attitudes are more forward facing than the inspector who claims the murderer must have been 'high on pot.' I'm not sure the murderer would have any enthusiasm and I'm sure there would be a case of the 'munchies' but this is an extreme case.
The movie is also a slower paced affair and cranks up the tension quite a bit, it's a lot less jokey than the television series would become but it is an interesting watch and has aged pretty well. The outside shots are well done and lends the film a sense of place, whilst McGavin's acting gives the character of Kolchak a likeable personality. The tightness of the film makes it watchable and exciting, even now. Okay, the makeup effects are dated but at least they don't look like dated Dorito-effect CGI (I'm looking at you ‘The Scorpion King’). Watch this film if you can, it’s a blast.
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