God Told Me To

(Larry Cohen; 1976)

(Blue Underground)

In New York City, a sniper sits perched atop a water tower, randomly killing people below. When a detective climbs up to negotiate, the sniper tell him that God told him to do it, then promptly takes a swan dive off the tower. Soon thereafter, more mass murders occur, with people telling the police that “God told them to”. Police soon discover that a young man was seen talking to the perpetrators just before each killing spree. Could he be the second coming of Christ?

One truly complex film, God Told Me To isn’t the sort of film you sit down to watch and expect some mindless entertainment. The film is extremely complex and complicated and very well written. The murders aren’t that graphic, but do have an impact. The storyline unfolds so that you’re left with more questions than answers. I was expecting a film where some whacko was running around killing people in the name of God. Boy was I surprised when Jesus makes an appearance. Or rather someone who could be Jesus. Featuring Andy Kaufman as a crazed cop who goes on a shooting rampage during the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. You’ll either love it or hate it.

Dolby digital 6.1 EX, 5.2, and original Mono are all offered on this excellent disc. I watched in 5.1 and Blue Underground has once again done a stunning job.

Anamorphic widescreen 1.85:1. Flawless print.

- Trailers

- Commentary by Dan Larry Cohen

- TV spots

- Poster & Still gallery

Standard DVD keep case.

Sound: 10

Picture: 10

Special Features: 5

Packaging: 7

Film: 8

Overall Rating: 8

(Rating scale is out of 10, with 1 being the worst and 10 the best)