The Killer: In director David Fincher’s gripping “The Killer,” featuring Michael Fassbender, the narrative skillfully shifts the perception of contract killings from glamorous to mundane, courtesy of Fassbender’s insightful narration.
Adapted from a French graphic novel, Fincher and Andrew Kevin Walker, reuniting after their acclaimed work on “Se7en,” portray the monotony of waiting for the perfect moment to execute a hit. It’s a portrayal of “Annie Oakley jobs,” where waiting is interspersed with fast food indulgence, creating a unique blend akin to “The Accidental Tourist,” armed with a silencer.
“I am what I am,” muses Fassbender’s character early on, crediting Popeye. “I’m not exceptional.” Yet, his exceptional prowess in the deadly craft turns a routine hit into a shocking misfire, altering his role from predator to prey. Viewed as a liability by those who hired him, the nameless killer embarks on a perilous journey, understanding that the best defense requires a formidable offense.
Navigating the globe, Fassbender’s character utilizes fake passports with clever aliases drawn from classic TV names, engaging with a roster of talented actors, including Tilda Swinton and Arliss Howard. A gripping hand-to-hand fight scene, coupled with meticulous planning, approaches instant classic status, showcasing inventive uses of household items.
Fassbender, masterfully conveying quiet menace in this minimally verbal role, adds depth to Fincher’s deliberate pacing, sustaining an underlying sense of unease. Released on Netflix following a brief theatrical stint, “The Killer” exudes a classic vibe while injecting freshness, wit, and unpredictability into the well-trodden genre.
Debuting amidst Netflix’s push for award-worthy films, “The Killer” is poised to secure a lasting presence among the platform’s most-viewed selections and recommended tiers. While not aiming for exceptionalism, as the man said, “The Killer” confidently delivers what it is—a film that precisely meets expectations.
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