In The Rosary Murders, Father Koesler (played by Donald Sutherland) is approached by a man who confesses to killing several priests in Detroit. The killer specifically requests that Father Koesler hear his confession and promises to turn himself in after confessing. However, when Father Koesler tries to convince the killer to go to the police, he refuses.
As the killings continue, Father Koesler becomes a reluctant sleuth, investigating the crimes on his own while struggling with his conscience about breaking the seal of confession. Along the way, he crosses paths with a tough detective (Charles Durning) who is also investigating the murders.
As Father Koesler gets closer to the killer, he discovers that the motive behind the murders is more complicated than he initially suspected. The film delves into issues of faith, redemption, and the delicate balance between loyalty to one's faith and loyalty to the law.
The Rosary Murders is based on the novel by William X. Kienzle, who was a former Catholic priest. The film also features supporting performances from Belinda Bauer, Josef Sommer, and Tom Mardirosian.