Review of The Killing (1956) by Douglas K — 10 Jan 2008
Stanley Kubrick first "official" film is something of a curiosity. Light years ahead of its time (as Kubrick would be for most of his career), this film combined elements of 50's film noir and the upcoming post MPAA period that would explode in the 1970's.
Sterling Hayden (one of the most underrated stars ever) turns in a sick performance as the brutal bank robber who will sacrifice anything and anyone to pull off the heist he has planned. The dialogue is pure 50's noir.
The characters are pure 50's noir. But the sensibilities of how it is shot and put together flashes forward to an era filmmakers hadn't experienced yet. Quentin Tarantino's "Reservoir Dogs" has been compared to this film.
..and rightly so.
This review of The Killing (1956) was written by Douglas K on 10 Jan 2008.
The Killing has generally received very positive reviews.
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