The Killing (1956)

The Killing was our first “old movie” and we were all a little skeptical. Sure, old movies are great, but sometimes they just don’t pop the way current viewers would like. Plus, the film was ranked #195 — not particularly encouraging.

The beginning of the film starts slowly. Older films tend to favor exposition, and so does The Killing. We were worried. Fortunately, our fears were assuaged soon afterward, as the movie picked up the pace.

As far as the script is concerned, it’s certainly imaginative, but it doesn’t exactly leave you guessing. For most of the film, you’re in the know, and some movie viewers will appreciate the refreshing change of pace, which is to keep the viewer guessing until the very end. The characters are enjoyable. There are some viewers will love and cheer for, at least one whom viewers will hate (I know I did.), and some that viewers will sympathize with.

There are some unfortunate downfalls with the plot, revolving around how the ratings board did things in the ’50s concerning violence in films. If you’re curious as to exactly how the board worked, please refer to Marc’s review of The Killing.

The acting is sporadic. Some do a good job, others merely get the job done. However, no one drags the film down *cough* Hayden Christensen in Star Wars *cough*

As far as directing and cinematography are concerned, Stanley Kubrick does his thing. There’s a reason that people know his name, even if you didn’t grow up with his films. He displays creativity and a keen understanding of what keeps a viewer interested. The camera angles and use of their technology is impressive throughout and lived up to today’s standards barring a few moments.

The soundtrack was… well, it was from the 1950’s. Unfortunately, the music in movies from that era tends to feel canned, and The Killing is no exception. The music serves to set the mood, but it also breaks the viewer’s immersion with its slightly out-of-place feel.

The Killing is an exceptional crime movie. If you like movies where you’re cheering for the bad guy (SEE Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid) then this one is for you.

Author	Script	Acting	Cinematography	Soundtrack	Directing	Special Effects	Overall
Ben	10	9	9	5	9	8	8.333
Marc	10	10	9	5	8	8	8.333
Jon	9	8	7	6	8	7	7.5