Keith Walley directed the 2002 film “Speck,” which focuses on the Richard Speck nursing dorm murders and features Doug Cole as the actual perpetrator, Richard Speck. The movie depicts how he violently targeted nine nursing students living in a townhouse used as a dormitory in south Chicago during 1966, killing eight of them individually. One student, Beverly Sotelo, survived by concealing herself under a bed while Speck was temporarily absent. It’s suggested that his drug use may have contributed to him losing track of his victims. Her testimony proved crucial in identifying the man with the crude tattoo on his forearm that declared: “Born to raise hell.” The subject matter is undeniably unpleasant, but the film manages to portray the events of July 13, 1966, effectively. Despite its limited budget and independent production status, it’s well-made and features capable actors. The musical score is consistently unsettling and eerie, while the overall tone is dreamlike, stark, and horrifying. Cole's narration as the killer draws parallels to Willard’s narration in “Apocalypse Now” (1979). This narration combines Speck’s actual statements with those of other notorious murderers like Dahmer, along with elements of creative license from the writers. Regardless, the carefully crafted, sociopathic dialogue successfully places you inside the mind of the killer and doesn't shy away from psychological examination. Essentially, the narration boldly reveals a disturbing reality and is skillfully delivered by Cole; the film deserves recognition for this accomplishment. The main drawback to “Speck” lies in its rather straightforward narrative. The initial hour concentrates on Speck’s intrusion into the townhouse, his intimidation of the women, and their subsequent murders. A more engaging final act details the aftermath and his eventual arrest. Everything feels authentic, but it isn't entertaining in the same way as films like “Friday the 13th,” likely because the filmmakers intended "Speck" to be a realistic depiction of the actual crimes; and that’s precisely what it is. Those “Friday the 13th” movies can occasionally be enjoyable, even humorous at times when depicting murders, but this film doesn't offer that kind of experience. A lifelong prisoner, Speck died from a heart attack in 1991, twenty-five years after committing his crimes (an excessively long time to wait for justice). Regarding his violent actions, he stated: “I had no feelings at all that night. They said there was blood all over the place. I can't remember. It felt like nothing ... I'm sorry as hell; for those girls and for their families, and for me. If I had to do it over again, it would be a simple house burglary." He was a deeply disturbed individual who unfortunately succumbed to further depravity while incarcerated—a tragic waste of potential—but at least he honestly expressed remorse for what he did. The movie has a runtime of 79 minutes. The script was written by Don Adams & Aaron Pope. GRADE: B/B- (6.5/10)

Source on TMDB