Review of Kill Your Darlings (2013) by Christopher H — 24 Nov 2013

The Beat Generation has always been fascinating to me, with the Allen Ginsbergs and Jack Kerouacs of the world, who can deny this revolution in poetry and self-expression. As the story of Kerouac becomes more and more publicized, I've gotten even more invested in his story and have begun to seek out his work.

"Kill Your Darlings" takes a step back, before these men were icons and divulges their initial workings and desires to change the structure of poetry and the way it is expressed. Starring Daniel Radcliffe as Allen Ginsberg, leaving his father (with a wonderful dramatic turn from David Cross) and his ailing mother (Jennifer Jason Leigh), he sets off to Columbia University.

Upon meeting rebel Lucien Carr (Dane DeHaan), he follows in the footsteps of men like David Kammerer (Michael C. Hall), William S. Burroughs (Ben Foster), and Jack Kerouac himself (Jack Huston). Forcing their way into poetry and changing people's perceptions, the boys enjoy an anarchist lifestyle, in skipping class and enjoying drinks, they create their own tiny social club.

But as the dark past of Lucien and David surfaces, something much sinister comes into play. Based on a very true story, the film unravels like a thriller, but stays grounded on amazing performances from the talented young actors, especially DeHaan, Foster, and Huston, who all bring a new level to the characters they play and present their worth within their first few minutes on screen.

Another pleasant surprise included Elizabeth Olsen as Kerouac's unwed lady, Edie Parker, whose limited screen-time is made up for by her strong performance. With an authenticity that grabs hold of your attention and spectacular performances all around, "Kill Your Darlings" is the best representation of the Beat Generation that I've seen yet.