The Killer’s Game is not only an action- comedy film, it also has some romance mixed in, so fans of either of these three genres will be getting quite a story written by Rand Ravich and James Coyne, adapted from the novel by Jay Bonansinga (1997) of the same name. The film is directed by J. J. Perry, an actor, stuntman and assistant director who brings all these skills to make this a very engaging film.
The trailer gives us insight into what an assassin, Joe Flood (Dave Bautista), is highly capable of when on assignment. We also see how concerned he is because of headaches that impair his vision. He goes to consult Dr. Kagen (Raffaello Degruttola) as seen in the trailer. Tests are done. Then, see what happens after Joe Flood receives multiple missed calls from the same, but now frantic doctor trying to clear things up. Think of it as life before the diagnosis (first half) and into the second half as life after the diagnosis and the script blends them well. Yes, the hit he takes out on himself as noted in the trailer goes out and this garners international attention.
Joe Flood is out on an assignment at a ballet where he sees the beautiful Maize (Sofia Boutella). Though he tries to go about his business, Maize does become his business and there are lovely scenes of a budding romance. Life is good until he thinks he is on his deathbed. He takes action to try to care for Maize, but you will see what the other assassins have in mind when it comes to Joe’s sweetheart.
The assassins are many and from all corners of the world, including Lovedahl (Terry Crews, “Brooklyn Nine -Nine” TV series) and of course, Emilio “El Botas” from Spain (Marko Zaror, a Chilean martial arts artist I met eleven years ago here in Austin for his performance in Machete Kills, 2013). Among the many, these two have the style, fancy moves and music to go with it. These are not your ordinary assassins and they are well worth the price of admission. I found them both wildly entertaining as assassins. Some of the funniest scenes are also by Lovedahl and “Money” (George Somner), who is assigned to be a driver for Lovedahl and learn the tricks of the trade from him while on the ground. I cannot spoil any scenes, but Money is an excellent character to have been written in for the comedy.
I cannot miss adding how great Ben Kingsley is in his role of Zvi, Joe’s “boss” who secures the assignments and serves as a mentor as well. His dialogue is not all dry and such – nope – you will find him with his own brand of humor.
Cast- The film stars Scott Adkins (as Angus Mackenzie), Pom Klementieff (as Marianna), Drew McIntyre (as Rory Mackenzie), Shaina West, Lucy Cork, Daniel Bernhardt (as Radovan), Lee Hoon (as Goyang).
If you are a fan of the fight scenes and use of multiple weapons for each kill, this film is for you.
The Killer’s Game is to be released in the United States on September 13, 2024.
Source: Lionsgate
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