In Paris, France, a fateful near-miss in a job undertaken by an assassin known only as The Killer (Michael Fassbender), results in him being targeted by his employers before he himself decides to embark on a mission of revenge. This calm and calculated killer waits in the shadows, waiting his next target, yet the longer he waits, the more he thinks that he is beginning to lose his own sanity. It’s worth noting that The Killer is currently streaming on Netflix.

Director: David Fincher
Writers: Alexis Nolent, Luc Jacamon
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Tilda Swinton, Charles Parnell, Arliss Howard

Directed by David Fincher, The Killer is a film adaptation based on the French Comic named Le Tueur, written by Alexis Nolent and Luc Jacamon. The comic follows the life of an unnamed male assassin with the development of an adaptation originally discussed back in 2007, before the project eventually moved over to Netflix more recently, who produced and provided The Killer with an October 2023 theatrical release, as well as a November 2023 streaming release.

From a cinematography point of view, The Killer certainly excelled and provided some stunning, picturesque locations for the viewer. The film was divided into “chapters” with each taking place in different locations around the world. France and the Dominican Republic were countries showcased, as well as various states within the United States such as Louisiana, Florida, Illinois and New York. The soundtrack that featured was also effective and noteworthy, adding a solid amount of atmosphere and suspense when required.

One aspect of the flick that seemed to be a little forced and frustrating at times, albeit perhaps showcasing modern cinema nowadays, would be the sheer number of on-screen product placements that were on display. Numerous brands were prevalent throughout the one-hundred and eighteen-minute runtime, in a less than subtle manner. In my eyes, this was a flaw that cheapened the overall appearance of a serious picture that boasted excellent production value.

In terms of the cast, Michael Fassbender adopted the lead role and portrayed The Killer, commanding the majority of on-screen presence as well as delivering a length opening act, while also providing first person narration throughout. Support reigned in from various angles but none of which seemed to have much weight behind them. Tilda Swinton is billed as The Expert, while Charles Parnell and Arliss Howard also starred as The Lawyer and The Client, respectively.

All in all, this more than likely wasn’t the action-packed thrill ride that some people were expecting upon seeing the original trailer many months ago. Instead, audiences were given a slow, methodical look into the activities and character of an assassin that was easy on the eye and had a nicely portrayed noir style at times. As previously noted, The Killer is currently streaming on Netflix.

“It’s amazing how physically exhausting it can be to do nothing. If you are unable to endure boredom, this work is not for you.”

The Killer – The Killer