One of the last films of Ray Dennis Steckler's career to get major distribution; "The Hollywood Strangler Meets The Skid Row Slasher" is a bit of an oddity when it comes to 1970's grindhouse flicks. Jonathon Click (Pierre Agostino) is a brutal serial killer in Hollywood, who is motivated by his love/hate for a woman named "Marsha" to strangle prostitutes all around L.A. He uses the then popular photography gimmick to meet with his "Models" (hookers), which he then strangles to death because he considers them to be "Garbage". Along the way, he meets an alluring woman who runs a seedy used book store and develops an interest in her. This new love interest (Carolyn Brandt) shares an equally motivating distaste for the opposite sex, particularly alcoholics and homeless men. So it's a subliminal love story between two serial killers, basically.

I think this effect is actually pretty cool, and creates a creepy atmosphere that constantly reminds us we are in the mind of a serial killer. The cinematography and editing is excellent in my opinion. I love the way this movie looks and flows, it has a nice Pseudo-European vibe to it that really makes it feel more cinematic than it would otherwise since it is basically shot like a documentary. Some of the prostitutes are pretty hot, and I just love the overall sleazy nature of the setting. It really does feel like 1970's skid row, even though I am certain that a lot of it was actually shot in Las Vegas. I also think Pierre Agostino does a nice job making his performance memorable. The movie just has a way of leaving a lasting image on it's audience.

This film is one of the prime examples of why I think Ray Dennis Steckler was an underrated filmmaker (Along with The Thrill Killers). It's a fun and interesting little movie that really should get a little more attention. If you are looking for an entertaining grindhouse classic, this flick should suit your need.