The Killer (2024) on Peacock: A Cinematic Masterpiece or Misfire? An In-Depth Review
In the world of cinema, where originality often takes a backseat to reboots and remakes, The Killer (2024) arrives as a polarizing force. Directed by the legendary John Woo, this film was destined to be a subject of debate. It’s a high-stakes action thriller that pits nostalgia against innovation, and depending on whom you ask, it’s either a triumphant return to form or a tragic misstep. But let’s dig deeper and examine what The Killer (2024) truly offers.
A Nostalgic Nod or a New Direction?
From the outset, The Killer (2024) is a film burdened by its heritage. As a remake of Woo’s 1989 classic, comparisons were inevitable. The original, starring Chow Yun-Fat, was an iconic piece of Hong Kong cinema that influenced generations of filmmakers. The remake, starring Nathalie Emmanuel and Omar Sy, attempts to capture the same magic but with a modern twist. However, this modernization is where the film finds itself at odds with its legacy.
Some fans of the original argue that the remake fails to honor the source material. A review harshly criticizes Brian Helgeland, the screenwriter, for allegedly "woking" a classic, accusing him of tarnishing the film’s original essence. "You can’t woke a classic and iconic film like this one," one fan laments. This sentiment echoes the frustrations of purists who feel that the film's identity has been compromised by attempts to cater to contemporary audiences.
Nathalie Emmanuel: A Star Ascends
Despite the criticisms, The Killer (2024) finds its strongest asset in Nathalie Emmanuel. Best known for her role in Game of Thrones, Emmanuel delivers a performance that has been widely praised. She plays Zee, a hitwoman with a moral code, a character that offers a fresh perspective on the traditional anti-hero. Emmanuel’s portrayal is intense, layered, and undeniably compelling. "Natalie owned this role! The right amount of action, a little comedy, and a couple of times I felt a few tears rolling down my cheeks," one reviewer notes, highlighting the emotional depth she brings to the film.
Emmanuel's chemistry with Omar Sy, who plays a mysterious ally, is another highlight. The duo’s dynamic is electric, offering a respite from the relentless action with moments of genuine connection. Unlike many action films that force a romantic subplot, The Killer (2024) wisely avoids this trope, allowing their relationship to evolve naturally. "Omar and Nathalie make a great duo. And they didn’t go for the cheesy romance angle," praises a reviewer, appreciating the film's restraint.
The Action: A Double-Edged Sword
John Woo’s signature style is evident throughout the film, from the intricate choreography to the slow-motion gunfights. For fans of Woo’s work, these moments are a nostalgic callback to his earlier films. However, not everyone is on board with the action sequences. One reviewer criticizes the film’s climactic shootout, calling it a "low budget from Universal or another stupid idea from the writer." The decision to stage the final battle in broad daylight, a departure from the original’s more shadowy and atmospheric setting, has been particularly divisive.
On the other hand, some viewers find the action exhilarating, if not slightly excessive. "If you like violence and gore, then this would be a 5-star film," another review states, recognizing that the film’s appeal may vary depending on one’s tolerance for intense action. Yet, even those who enjoy the spectacle admit that it sometimes borders on the absurd, with over-the-top stunts that stretch the limits of believability.
The Writing: A Mixed Bag
The screenplay, written by Brian Helgeland, is where The Killer (2024) truly divides audiences. Some praise it for attempting to modernize a classic, while others view it as the film’s weakest link. One particularly scathing review describes the writing as "bad and silly," citing Zee’s catchphrase, "Does the victim deserve this death?" as an example of the script’s clunky dialogue.
Critics also point out inconsistencies in the film's tone. The Killer (2024) oscillates between intense drama and moments of unintended comedy, which can be jarring for viewers. "Absolutely laughable! It's so bad I laughed at the action and stunts along with the terrible writing and direction," one reviewer writes, highlighting the film’s struggle to maintain a cohesive narrative.
Peacock’s Role: Streaming’s Double-Edged Sword
One of the most significant shifts for The Killer (2024) is its release platform. Distributed on Peacock, the film is part of the growing trend of high-budget releases on streaming services. While this offers greater accessibility, it also brings challenges. The film’s reception might have been different had it been released in theaters, where the cinematic experience could amplify its strengths. Instead, the immediate availability on Peacock has exposed it to the kind of scrutiny typically reserved for straight-to-streaming films.
For some, the move to Peacock was a missed opportunity to showcase Woo’s work on the big screen, where his visual style could be fully appreciated. "I had no idea this movie was going to be so good. I have a feeling people were reading this movie before they even saw it," one viewer remarks, suggesting that preconceived notions about streaming releases may have colored some reviews.
Another area where The Killer (2024) has faced criticism is in its pacing and character development. Some viewers have pointed out that the film rushes through key plot points, leaving little time for the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level. This hurried narrative results in a lack of emotional investment, making certain character motivations feel forced or underdeveloped. Additionally, the supporting cast, despite their potential, are often sidelined, with their backstories and relationships receiving minimal attention. This has led to complaints that the film prioritizes style over substance, sacrificing the richness of its characters for the sake of maintaining a relentless pace. For some, this detracts from the overall impact of the story, making the film feel more like a series of action set-pieces than a cohesive narrative journey.
Conclusion: A Film Worth Watching?
So, is The Killer (2024) a film worth watching? The answer, as with many remakes, depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a fan of John Woo’s work and are willing to approach the film with an open mind, there’s much to enjoy. Nathalie Emmanuel’s performance alone is worth the price of admission, and the action sequences, while occasionally excessive, deliver the kind of adrenaline-pumping thrills Woo is known for.
However, if you’re a purist who holds the original in high regard, you may find this remake lacking. The changes to the story, the modernized script, and the choice of platform all contribute to a film that, while entertaining, doesn’t quite live up to its predecessor.
The Killer (2024) is a film that will continue to divide audiences. It’s a bold attempt to reimagine a classic, but one that doesn’t always hit its mark. Whether you view it as a worthy successor or a misfire will depend on your perspective, but one thing is certain: it’s a film that will leave you with plenty to talk about.