They Will Kill You stars Zazzy Beats and is directed by Carrill Sokalov, the filmmaker behind the brilliantly titled Why Don't You Just Die. In this film, a woman takes a job as a housekeeper in a New York City high-rise, unaware of the building's history of disappearances. She soon realizes that the community is shrouded in mystery, leading to a night filled with brutality and intense action.
Sazzy Beats has previously played supporting characters in films like Joker, but her roles in action films such as Deadpool 2 and Bullet Train have showcased her abilities in this genre. This movie gives her the opportunity to take the lead in an extraordinarily gory and violent action narrative. Like recent films, They Will Kill You critiques the wealthy and upper classes, presenting an innocent protagonist as they desperately navigate a situation against powerful and rich adversaries. The reviewer went into this film without prior knowledge, urging audiences to do the same for the best experience.
While the film shares similarities with others, particularly Ready or Not, it stands out with its own unique storytelling. The review acknowledges that there may be people who feel it is similar to what they've already seen. However, the reviewer expresses enjoyment at this formula, noting that, to them, there is nothing exhausting about watching a protagonist battle a group of wealthy antagonists in an action setting.
The film's direction, cinematography, and sound design have been praised. It features keen attention to practical effects, with over-the-top gore reminiscent of samurai films, where headless bodies spout fountains of blood akin to Akira Kurosawa's early work. The film is noted for its aesthetic appeal, from its impressive stunt work to beautiful production designs and camerawork.
However, it is crucial to understand that this movie should not be taken too seriously. Its heightened reality allows for absurd action sequences that defy logic yet remain entertaining. The director balances the unrealistic elements with a playful and committed storytelling approach, inviting audiences to appreciate the technical execution rather than scrutinizing the plot for coherence.
Despite an industry hesitance towards horror comedies, this film brings that entertaining dynamic back, evoking a sense of fun and exuberance that has been lacking in many recent action films. The performances, particularly those of Zazzy Beats and the antagonists played by Patricia Ard and Heather Graham, were also highlights, impressing the reviewer with their engaging portrayals.
Overall, the reviewer highly recommends They Will Kill You as a must-see on the big screen, commending the work done by the filmmaker and expressing eagerness for his future projects.
