Friday 10 November 2023

REVIEW: The Killer (2023) - Starring Michael Fassbender

Review by Jon Donnis
"David Fincher's 'The Killer' plunges audiences into a gripping portrayal of a professional assassin, skillfully depicted by Michael Fassbender. The film's narrative prowess is evident, drawing viewers into a world of calculated precision and high-stakes tension.

With Fincher at the helm, the direction remains top-tier, enhanced by a stellar cast that weaves a story both smart and engaging. Fassbender's performance as the lead assassin elevates the film, delving into the psyche of a character navigating a dangerous profession with chilling expertise.

The storyline, centered around a meticulously planned sniper job in a Parisian hotel, goes awry when the assassin accidentally shoots the wrong target. This misstep triggers a dangerous sequence of events as the assassin becomes the hunted. His pursuit for truth and revenge leads him to confront his handler, portrayed by Charles Parnell, unraveling a web of betrayal.

As the assassin navigates a treacherous path to identify those behind the attempts on his life, he encounters a diverse array of adversaries, each encounter fraught with tension. These high-stakes confrontations take place in various locations, culminating in a thought-provoking showdown with the initial client, a billionaire portrayed by Arliss Howard.


Supported by standout performances from Tilda Swinton and a strong supporting cast, the film paints a vivid and intricate picture of the assassin's world, blending deception and calculated moves.

While the film delivers a tension-filled experience, some viewers might find the scarcity of intense action sequences and the occasional predictability in the plot a bit lacking. Nonetheless, Fincher's direction, Fassbender's gripping portrayal, and the overall execution solidify 'The Killer' as a compelling addition to the thriller genre."

I score The Killer a fair 7.5 out of 10.

Out now on Netflix.