Watch The Killers
- NR
- 1946
- 1 hr 43 min
-
7.7 (24,128)
The Killers is a classic film noir from 1946 that has become a defining cultural touchstone. Directed by Robert Siodmak, the movie stars Burt Lancaster, Ava Gardner, and Edmond O'Brien, and has been hailed by audiences and critics alike for its gripping story, stunning performances, and dark, seedy atmosphere. The movie tells the story of a former boxer named Ole 'Swede' Andersen (Burt Lancaster) who is living in a small town in upstate New York. He is resigned to a life of loneliness and poverty until one day, two hitmen arrive in town looking for him. The killers take up residence in the diner across the street from Andersen's boarding house and wait for him to return home.
Despite knowing that his life is in danger, Andersen refuses to run and instead chooses to confront the killers. As the movie unfolds, we are taken on a gripping ride through the seedy criminal underbelly of a small town, as the truth about Andersen's past and the reason for the hit on his life is slowly revealed.
The Killers is notable for its non-linear structure, with the story unfolding through a series of flashbacks as the various characters involved in the plot are interviewed by an insurance investigator (Edmond O'Brien) who is trying to uncover the truth about the hit on Andersen.
Throughout the movie, we are treated to a masterclass of acting, with Lancaster giving a standout performance as the troubled, world-weary Andersen. Ava Gardner is equally impressive as Kitty Collins, a femme fatale who becomes entangled in the plot and provides a tantalizing glimpse into a world of glamour and wealth that Andersen has never known.
In addition to the stellar performances, the movie is also notable for its stunning visual style, which expertly captures the dark, shadowy world of film noir. The use of light and shadow, as well as the movie's unique framing and camera angles, create a mood of tension and suspense that is palpable throughout.
At its core, The Killers is a dark, gripping tale of crime, betrayal, and redemption. It explores themes of loneliness, love, and morality, and challenges audiences to ask themselves whether there is any hope for redemption in a world so corrupted by greed and violence.
Overall, The Killers is a classic movie that has aged remarkably well. its themes and visual style continue to resonate with contemporary audiences, and its performances remain some of the most captivating and nuanced in the history of cinema. Fans of film noir and classic cinema should definitely take the time to check out this truly outstanding movie.
The Killers is a 1946 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.