Controversial New Film Sparks a Fassbender Frenzy, Dividing Critics but Leaving Audiences Mesmerized

Summary

Fassbender's lead performance in "The Killer" is praised by almost all reviewers, with his careworn and inscrutable face being seen as a perfect fit for the role.

The moral ambiguity and mischievous tone of the film may divide audiences, but some will be enchanted by its distinctive point of view.

"The Killer" will have a limited theater release on October 27 and will be available to stream on Netflix starting on November 10.

The Killer has received mixed reviews, but it has been widely acclaimed for Michael Fassbender's exceptional lead performance. Directed by David Fincher, known for his successful films such as Se7en, Gone Girl, The Social Network, and Fight Club, this movie is an adaptation of the French-language comic book Le Tueur by Matz and Luc Jacamon. Fassbender portrays an assassin who rebels against his employers, leading to an intense international pursuit as he seeks to gain the upper hand. Although the official release date for The Killer is set for October 27, it has already premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, allowing critics in attendance to share their reviews. While their opinions may vary, the majority of critics highly praise Fassbender's exceptional performance. Here are some select quotes:

Manuel São Bento, FandomWire:

Fassbender captivates with his chilling and compelling performance as a ruthless murderer devoid of conscience or pity. His impeccably composed narration is integral to creating the somber atmosphere in The Killer, as are the aforementioned cinematography and score. These three aspects play a vital role in the film's triumph, skillfully guided by Fincher who, despite the aforementioned challenges, remains resolute in his vision.

Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian:

This is a thriller of pure surface and style and managed with terrific flair and Fassbender’s careworn, inscrutable face is just right for it.

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In spite of Michael Fassbender's subdued yet remarkably expressive portrayal, “The Killer” emanates a cold and distant aura. Nonetheless, the filmmakers skillfully extract a significant amount of humor from this icy environment.

Fassbender's uncanny lack of expression invites us to ascribe significance to him, enhancing the depth of one of the director's more mainstream films. And if you've ever pondered how Fincher's take on Bond might appear, this could serve as a glimpse.

The Killer's moral ambiguity may offend certain viewers, while others may revel in the protagonist's carefree and irreverent attitude, unaffected by any religious or moral constraints.

Owen Gleiberman, Variety:

Fassbender, with his morose anonymity, is the perfect actor to inhabit this role, his sullen snake-like glare emitting silent notes of rage and fear.

Richard Lawson of Vanity Fair suggests that the movie's anti-climactic ending may have been intentional on David Fincher's part, aiming to challenge our fascination with hit-man movies and force us to question our own bloodlust. Regardless of the reasoning behind it, the film's terseness can be seen as an aggressive move towards the audience. While Fincher is aware of his ability to captivate viewers, he deliberately withholds that pleasure, both intellectually and on a primal level.

Fassbender makes a welcome return to the screen after his self-imposed break, portraying a stoic hitman while cleverly concealing his emotions. His bucket hat and sunglasses add to his unmemorable appearance, as he advises. It's a delight to have him back after a four-year absence from our screens.

Erik Messerschmidt, the director of photography for the Oscar-winning film "Mank," has brought an aesthetic quality to the movie. However, this collaboration between Messerschmidt and Fincher may not be as successful as their previous works. The cinematography in the film contributes to the director's goal of creating classic references, but lacks the stylish execution needed to fully capture the essence of this subtle yet dangerous story.

Fassbender perfectly embodies the film's style, portraying a central character with an air of mystery. His past is unknown, and his life is only minimally revealed, yet his humanity shines through in subtle moments. With a hint of coolness in his smooth demeanor and delivery, Fassbender also exudes a weary and curious quality, almost appearing a bit insane. Through his silence, conveyed mostly through voiceover, we sense his unsettling detachment from society in a world that is fully globalized. In this world, one can amass wealth by working alone and causing harm to others, all while jet-setting and taking lives. It is a world where even amidst such actions, you can conveniently order an Amazon package to be delivered before your next target.

Damon Wise, Deadline:

While Fincher's fans will undoubtedly find satisfaction, The Killer also caters to a wider audience craving this type of entertainment. With the Bourne films no longer in production and Daniel Craig's retirement, there is currently a strong demand for such content.

Could The Killer Earn Michael Fassbender His Next Oscar Nomination?

Michael Fassbender, known for delivering impressive performances, has already secured two Oscar nominations in the past. These nominations were for his roles in the movies "12 Years a Slave" (2013) and "Steve Jobs" (2015). Collaborating with David Fincher, a three-time Oscar-nominated director, this year could further enhance Fassbender's chances.

The Oscars frequently offer opportunities for recognition to films that may have been overlooked by the Academy in other categories. Even if "The Killer" doesn't receive nominations in other areas, it could serve as a springboard for Fassbender to earn another nomination. Similar experiences have occurred for other actors, including Glenn Close for "The Wife," Robert Forster for "Jackie Brown," and Rosamund Pike for David Fincher's "Gone Girl."

The Killer is strategically timed for Fassbender's performance to generate buzz. Being released in November positions the movie perfectly within the Oscar season, while avoiding being overshadowed by the flurry of year-end releases. These factors greatly increase the likelihood of the star securing his third nomination.