One of the most anticipated films of the year, David Fincher’s “The Killer,” was screened for Netflix execs and staff a few days ago. I’m told that the room was left stunned by the end of the 150 minute film.
Of course, I confess, the following reaction is from a reader who works at Netflix, so they might just be using me to launch strong word-of-mouth in what will be an inevitable Oscar campaign for this one.
This screening of “The Killer” still has people talking here. It’s an ice cold thriller that has atmospheric dread all over it. It’s a return to the thriller genre for Fincher. There are neo-noir elements, very graphic violence but it’s also very entertaining. What struck me most was the psychological aspect of the movie, Fassbender’s character is slowly losing his mind and you’re just sucked in his head and never get out of it. He’s a morally deficient assassin, a professional killer. It’s fascinating how he plans his strikes and how he moves around, it actually reminded me of “The American” with George Clooney. I don’t think Fincher has ever made a movie like this before. It’s his most “arthouse” thing to date and still a very fierce statement that is very accessible given how fascinating the lead character is.
As far as I know, Netflix hasn’t made a decision yet as to whether or not “The Killer” will go to Venice, they’re keeping it a very closely-guarded secret. I wouldn’t be surprised if they keep it hidden until the New York Film Festival in October.
Netflix doesn’t have as much Oscar bait this year as in previous years. I’ve mostly gathered David Fincher’s The Killer, Bradley Cooper’s Maestro, Wes Anderson’s Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, George C. Wolfe’s Rustin, Sam Esmail’s Leave the World Behind, and John Ridley’s Shirley.
“The Killer” has been in the can since late February. It was given an MPAA rating that suggests very Fincher-esque theatrics: Rated R for strong violence, language and brief sexuality.
Two-time Oscar winners Atticus Ross and Trent Reznor will be scoring the film. Fincher’s go-to DP, Erik Messerschmidt, who worked on “Mank,” is also lensing.
“The Killer” started production in November 2021 and wrapped shorting in March of 2022. We’re supposed to get this bad boy in November.
The film stars Michael Fassbender as an assassin who begins to psychologically crack as he develops a conscience, even as his clients continue to demand his skills. Tilda Swinton is also part of the cast. “The Killer” is an adaptation of Alexis Nolent’s graphic novel series. ”Seven” screenwriter Andrew Kevin Walker was hired to adapt Nolent’s novels.
Remember when, back in August, we learned “The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth” would be playing in only around 350 U.S. theaters, "maybe fewer"? Well, it's fewer. A lot fewer.