Killing Them Softly

Ethan Wasdovitch

Well, I’ve been waiting to see this movie for a very long time (ever since Brad Pitt’s performance was built up as Oscar-worthy during its premiere at Cannes).  I’m actually kind of surprised that it was given a wide release, and after seeing the film I am even more surprised given the artistic sensibilities at the film’s core.  The most important thing to know going into "Killing Them Softly" is that it is not the action-packed, suave film that trailers playing on television make it out to be.  Directed by Andrew Dominik (who also directed the slowly paced but brilliant western "The Assassination Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" which also starred Brad Pitt), "Killing Them Softly" focuses less on the amount of action (and yes, there is action) and more on the quality of the action and the overall themes that it is attempting to explore.  So don’t be surprised if wide audiences don’t embrace this movie because it is certainly not for everybody.

The story is simple enough: a crime syndicate is interrupted by a couple of dim-witted criminals who are looking to make a quick buck by robbing an underground gambling game and as a result a cleaner (Brad Pitt) is sent in to fix the mess and get the organization running again.  That central plot plays out beautifully, but at times drags along as a result of the other aim of the film, which is a much more broad message about the nature of American economics and politics.  For the most part, the film succeeds in juggling all of these elements, with some scenes being much more effective than others (especially the final moments, which easily steal the show).  Still, it is easy to read some of the more analogous elements of "Killing Them Softly" as overbearing and forced.

The acting in this movie is another high point.  Brad Pitt is incredible in his role (as expected) and the other standout performances are Scott McNairy and Ben Mendelsohn as the two criminals who perform the robbery that sets the plot in motion.  These two guys are absolutely vile and are the very definition of “scumbags”.  James Gandolfini is also excellent, but unfortunately his scenes go on for too long and had me guessing what the point of some of his dialogue was.  For the most part, the actors keep the film rolling along while Dominik adds some very interesting flare to give the film a distinct style.  Many scenes experiment with slow-motion and perspective to make it feel much more surreal.  These parts of the film may turn off many people who are looking for a more straight forward action-thriller.  

"Killing Them Softly" easily earns its R rating by being packed with profanity and extreme violence.  None of it ever feels excessive but rather adds to the realism of the film and gets you to really despise the right characters.  It is important to be aware that the violence in "Killing Them Softly" aims for realism and succeeds.  The violence is relentless and visceral, I can almost guarantee that you will cringe during every violent moment.  Proficient sound-editing adds to the impact of the violence, and I believe this film may even win Oscars for its sound effects and editing.  Not for the faint of heart.

Overall, "Killing Them Softly" succeeds.  The subtly of its political messages is certainly inconsistent and may be far too obvious for many, but the raw intensity and suspense of the plot mostly covers up any heavy-handedness.  Brad Pitt and the entire supporting cast give winning performances and director Andrew Dominik adds plenty of style to give "Killing Them Softly" a unique feeling.  Unfortunately it drags in parts and many will find the entire film flat out boring despite extremely realistic violence and big name actors.  This is a unique film that will either improve or be diminished upon repeated views.  Only time will tell.

Oh, and this movie is extremely cynical.  Don’t expect an uplifting picture by any means.  If you’re not optimistic about the current state of American politics, this movie will add to your pessimism.

8.5/10