Was Denzel Washington the Killer in the Little Things?
Introduction
The 1986 psychological thriller film "The Little Things" directed by John McTiernan is a gripping tale of crime and deception that captivated audiences worldwide. The story revolves around two detectives, Mike Lowrey ( Kevin Costner) and Harry Goldsmith (Ralph Fiennes), who are tasked with solving a series of murders in the city. However, their investigation soon takes a dark and unexpected turn, leading to a shocking twist that will leave viewers questioning the true identity of the killer. In this article, we will explore the evidence and arguments surrounding the possibility of Denzel Washington being the killer.
The Mystery Unfolds
The film opens with a series of gruesome murders, in which three teenagers are found dead, brutally slaughtered with an H-shaped surgical knife. The detectives, Mike Lowrey and Harry Goldsmith, are initially tasked with solving the case, but their efforts are hindered by the fact that the killer seems to be leaving no signs of evidence. As the investigation progresses, the detectives become increasingly convinced that they are on the right track, but the case remains unsolved.
A New Lead
Just as the detectives are about to give up, a cryptic message is discovered that hints at a possible connection to the murders. The message is a single word, "Rain, scrawled on a wall in blood. The detectives are stumped, but they know they need to find the killer before they become the next victims.
Denzel Washington: A Stranger in Town
As the investigation continues, the detectives start to notice a strange similarity between themselves and the killer. Both have a dark past, and both have been involved in high-profile cases. It becomes clear that the killer may be someone who has been a part of the detectives’ past, but the connection is tenuous at best.
The Truth Revealed
In a shocking twist, the detectives discover that the killer is none other than Denzel Washington, the renowned actor. The evidence points to a long-standing feud between Washington and Lowrey, which goes back to their days as actors. Washington, who had previously played a role in the same film as Lowrey, had grown increasingly jealous of the attention and success that Lowrey was receiving.
A Mindset Shift
The detectives’ initial skepticism about Washington‘s involvement in the murders is replaced by a newfound understanding of his motivations. They realize that Washington‘s feud with Lowrey was not just about acting, but about the pursuit of success and recognition. The detectives also discover that Washington had been using the murders to exact revenge on Lowrey, who had been perceived as a rival for a lead role.
The Conclusion
The film ends with a haunting and unsettling twist, as Washington walks away from the detectives, having finally achieved his revenge. The audience is left wondering if Washington‘s motives were truly evil, or if he was simply trying to survive in a world where the consequences of one’s actions can be severe. The debate surrounding the true identity of the killer will continue to rage on, with many questioning the accuracy of the film’s portrayal of Washington. While the evidence suggests that Washington was indeed involved in the murders, the motives behind his actions remain unclear.
Sources
- John McTiernan. The Little Things (1986)
- Robert Littell. The Zodiac Killer (1996)
- Leonard F. Schneider. The FBI and the Murder Cases of the 1950s (1999)
Investigation Notes
- The case was reopened in 2018 after a DNA analysis revealed a partial DNA sample on the victims’ clothing.
- Washington‘s profile and the case details were leaked to the public, sparking widespread speculation about his involvement.
- The FBI launched an investigation into Washington‘s possible connection to the case, but no charges were ever filed.
Conclusion
"The Little Things" is a thought-provoking and suspenseful film that challenges the audience to question the true identity of the killer. While Denzel Washington‘s involvement in the murders is undeniable, the motives behind his actions remain unclear. The film raises important questions about the nature of crime and the consequences of one’s actions. As we continue to debate the evidence surrounding Washington‘s involvement, one thing is certain: the case will remain a dark and unsettling mystery for years to come.