The Todd Killings: A Portait Of Early 70s America

The Todd Killings (1971) is a fascinating but uneven blend of hippie exploitation and true crime that never quite delivers on its potential. Directed by Barry Shear and loosely inspired by the real-life Charles Schmid "Pied Piper of Tucson" murders, the film attempts to navigate the cultural disillusionment of the 1970s while exploring the dark psychology of its central character, Skipper Todd (played chillingly by Robert F. Lyons).

On one hand, the movie captures the carefree yet morally unmoored spirit of the counterculture with its depiction of wayward youth, drugs, and the hazy allure of rebellion. Shear crafts a gritty, sun-drenched suburban wasteland that feels both suffocating and alluring, perfectly encapsulating the malaise of disenchanted teens. The film flirts with the hallmarks of hippie exploitation, leaning into the era's fascination with free-spirited rebellion and its inevitable descent into chaos.

On the other hand, The Todd Killings positions itself as a true crime tale, anchored in the sociopathic manipulation of Skipper Todd, a charismatic but chilling figure who preys on the insecurities of those around him. However, the true crime elements feel underdeveloped, lacking the depth and tension needed to make the story truly gripping. The film's attempts to merge these two genres—countercultural nihilism and psychological thriller—never fully coalesce. Instead, it feels like the two are competing for dominance, leaving the narrative muddled and emotionally distant.

The performances, particularly Lyons as the titular Todd, elevate the material to some extent. His charm and menace are unnervingly effective, making it easy to see why others are drawn to him, even as his true nature is revealed. But the supporting characters often feel like archetypes rather than fully fleshed-out individuals, which diminishes the emotional stakes.

Ultimately, The Todd Killings is a film caught between two worlds, neither of which it fully commits to. While it offers glimpses of insight into the era’s cultural rot and the dangers of charisma unchecked, it lacks the narrative focus and cohesion to leave a lasting impact. It’s a flawed but intriguing artifact of its time, one that captures the unease of the 1970s without fully making sense of it.