I Kill Giants (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
I Kill Giants (2017) is a fantastical coming-of-age drama directed by Anders Walter and based on the graphic novel of the same name by Joe Kelly and Ken Niimura. The film blends elements of fantasy, adventure, and emotional depth as it tells the story of a young girl who fights giants—both real and metaphorical. With a compelling lead performance by Madison Wolfe, I Kill Giants explores themes of grief, trauma, and the power of imagination.
In this review, we’ll cover the plot, performances, critical reception, and where to stream I Kill Giants in 2024.
Plot Overview: A Young Girl Battling Giants
At the heart of I Kill Giants is Barbara Thorson (Madison Wolfe), a quirky and introverted middle schooler who spends her time setting traps for mythical giants that she believes are coming to destroy her town. Barbara is convinced that these giants are real, and she alone has the power to stop them. Armed with a giant war hammer she calls “Coveleski” and a deep knowledge of magical lore, she dedicates her life to fighting off these enormous, destructive creatures.
As the film progresses, it becomes clear that Barbara’s obsession with giants is a way for her to cope with the harsh realities of her life, particularly her family’s struggle with a terminal illness. Her older sister, Karen (Imogen Poots), takes care of Barbara and their brother, while their absent parents remain a mystery that slowly unravels throughout the story.
Barbara’s isolated world is disrupted when she befriends a new student, Sophia (Sydney Wade), and is challenged by the school psychologist, Mrs. Mollé (Zoe Saldana), who tries to help her confront the reality she’s avoiding. The film’s emotional climax hinges on Barbara’s realization of the real “giants” she must face in her life, leading to a powerful and heart-wrenching conclusion.
Performances: Madison Wolfe Shines as Barbara
The success of I Kill Giants largely hinges on Madison Wolfe’s portrayal of Barbara Thorson. Wolfe delivers a nuanced performance, balancing the character’s eccentricity, stubbornness, and deep emotional pain. Her portrayal makes Barbara a believable and sympathetic character, even when she appears detached from reality. Wolfe captures Barbara’s vulnerability, allowing viewers to empathize with her internal struggle as she grapples with fear and grief.
Imogen Poots, as Barbara’s overburdened sister Karen, provides a grounded counterbalance to the film’s fantastical elements. Poots conveys the frustration and sadness of a sibling who has taken on the role of a parent too soon, yet she maintains a deep well of love for Barbara, despite their strained relationship.
Zoe Saldana brings warmth and empathy to the role of Mrs. Mollé, the school counselor who slowly gains Barbara’s trust. Saldana’s performance offers a calming presence in a film filled with emotional intensity, and her scenes with Wolfe are some of the most heartfelt in the movie.
Sydney Wade’s portrayal of Sophia adds an innocent, friendly dynamic to the story. Sophia serves as the bridge between Barbara’s lonely world and the potential for real human connection. Her attempts to understand Barbara’s unusual behavior and offer friendship give the film a layer of hope and tenderness.
Visual Effects and Cinematography: Fantasy Meets Reality
Visually, I Kill Giants is a striking film, balancing grounded real-world settings with dreamlike fantasy sequences. The giants themselves, when they appear, are impressively designed, massive in scale, and imposing, with a sense of otherworldly menace. The film uses special effects sparingly but effectively, enhancing the fantasy elements without overwhelming the emotional core of the story.
The cinematography by Rasmus Heise complements the film’s tone, with moody, overcast skies and intimate close-ups that capture Barbara’s isolation and inner turmoil. The transitions between reality and fantasy are smooth, allowing the viewer to inhabit Barbara’s world of imagination while still being rooted in her emotional reality.
Themes: Grief, Trauma, and Imagination
I Kill Giants deals with heavy themes such as grief, loss, and the ways in which children cope with trauma. Barbara’s fantasy of hunting giants serves as a metaphor for her inability to face the reality of her mother’s illness. The giants symbolize the overwhelming and uncontrollable forces in her life, and her fight against them is a way to regain a sense of control.
The film also explores the power of imagination as both a refuge and a barrier. While Barbara’s fantasy world helps her escape her pain, it also prevents her from dealing with her real emotions and connecting with the people who care about her. The story’s emotional depth lies in Barbara’s journey toward accepting that some battles cannot be fought with a hammer.
Critical Reception: A Unique and Emotional Film
I Kill Giants received generally positive reviews from critics, particularly for its emotional depth and Wolfe’s performance. The film currently holds a 76% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its blend of fantasy and reality, as well as its sensitive handling of difficult themes.
Some critics noted that the film’s pacing can be slow, and that its blend of fantasy and drama might not appeal to all audiences. However, for those willing to engage with its deeper emotional themes, I Kill Giants offers a powerful and moving experience. It’s a film that speaks to both young adults and older audiences, especially those who have experienced grief or loss.
Where to Watch I Kill Giants Online in 2024
If you’re looking to stream I Kill Giants in 2024, there are several platforms where the film is available:
1. Amazon Prime Video
I Kill Giants is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, either through a Prime membership or as a rental/purchase option. Rental prices typically range from $3.99, while purchasing the film costs around $9.99.
2. Apple TV
On Apple TV, you can rent I Kill Giants for $3.99 or purchase it for $9.99. Apple TV integrates well with iOS devices and offers high-quality streaming for both rentals and purchases.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
I Kill Giants is also available for rental or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV. Rental prices start at $3.99, while purchasing the movie will cost around $9.99. Google Play is compatible with a wide range of devices, making it a convenient option for Android users.
4. YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies offers I Kill Giants for rent or purchase. Rentals are priced at $3.99, and buying the film costs $9.99. YouTube is accessible across various platforms, including smart TVs, mobile devices, and desktop computers.
5. Vudu
Vudu provides both rental and purchase options for I Kill Giants. The rental fee is $3.99, and the purchase price is $9.99. Vudu’s platform is known for offering frequent discounts, so it’s worth checking for any promotions.
6. Tubi (Free Streaming with Ads)
I Kill Giants is occasionally available on Tubi, a free ad-supported streaming service. While you can watch the film without any rental fees, expect a few commercial breaks throughout the viewing experience.
Why Watch I Kill Giants in 2024?
I Kill Giants stands out as a unique blend of fantasy and emotional drama, offering both an entertaining and deeply moving experience. It’s not just a story about a young girl fighting monsters, but a tale of confronting the real-life giants that we all face—loss, fear, and grief. Madison Wolfe’s standout performance, combined with the film’s strong visual style and thematic depth, makes it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking and imaginative films.
For those looking for a movie that balances action, emotion, and fantasy, I Kill Giants is a compelling choice that resonates well beyond its fantastical premise.
Final Verdict: A Thoughtful and Emotional Fantasy Drama
I Kill Giants is a film that speaks to the power of imagination as both a shield and a bridge to emotional healing. With a standout performance by Madison Wolfe and a visually captivating narrative, the film offers a unique take on how children deal with trauma and grief. While it may not be for everyone, it’s a rewarding and heartfelt journey for those who enjoy films that tackle deeper emotional themes through the lens of fantasy. If you’re in search of a moving, introspective film with a dash of adventure, I Kill Giants is well worth a watch in 2024.
