Watch Better Living Through Killing

Better Living Through Killing is a 2008 indie thriller that delves into the psyches of two hitmen who find themselves at peculiar crossroads in their personal lives. Directed by Tom Hoover and written by Danny Boyd, the film stars BeBe Bellamont as Temple, a seasoned assassin growing disillusioned with his line of work, while Danny Boyd himself plays Roy, a young, brash killer whose inexperience slowly makes way for doubts about his chosen profession. The third lead is played by Robin Boyd herself, portraying a mysterious woman who has ties to both men and whose motives remain obscure for much of the film's runtime.

The plot of the film revolves around Temple and Roy being given a target to eliminate, a wealthy businessman named Mr. Coleman played by Gerald Dowd. The hit is meant to be a quick and clean job, but things take a turn for the worse when they end up killing the wrong person in a case of mistaken identity. From there, the two hitmen are forced to navigate a web of lies, double-crosses, and unexpected obstacles that ultimately put their own lives in danger.

One of the most striking aspects of Better Living Through Killing is how it doesn't rely on over-the-top action sequences or gratuitous violence to tell its story. Instead, the film takes a more introspective approach, exploring the emotional toll that killing for a living can take on a person. Temple, in particular, serves as a tragic figure, haunted by his past sins and struggling to find meaning in a life defined by violence. BeBe Bellamont delivers a nuanced performance, bringing a sense of world-weariness to the character that makes his arc all the more engaging to watch.

Danny Boyd's Roy, on the other hand, starts off as a cocky and self-assured killer, but as the film progresses, we see the cracks in his facade start to show. The scenes between Roy and Temple, where the two men debate the morality of their profession, are some of the film's strongest moments, showcasing the chemistry between Bellamont and Boyd.

As previously mentioned, the third lead, played by Robin Boyd, is somewhat of an enigma throughout much of the film. We know little about her background or motivations, but she serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold. It's a testament to Boyd's performance that she manages to make such a captivating impression despite having relatively little dialogue.

In terms of the film's technical aspects, Better Living Through Killing is a visually stunning movie that makes great use of lighting and framing to create a dark and moody atmosphere. The score, composed by John Skidmore, is also a standout, with its haunting piano melodies and ambient soundscapes adding to the film's overall sense of unease.

One critique that some viewers may have with the film is its pacing. Better Living Through Killing is a slow burn, taking its time to establish its characters and build tension. This may not be to everyone's taste, but for those who are patient and willing to invest in the story, the payoff is worth it.

Overall, Better Living Through Killing is a thought-provoking film that explores the darker side of human nature. Its themes of morality, regret, and redemption are handled with subtlety and nuance, making it a standout entry in the thriller genre. Fans of indie cinema and character-driven storytelling will find much to appreciate in this overlooked gem.