Killing Gunther (2017) – A Comedic Twist on the Assassin Genre
“Killing Gunther” (2017) is a unique blend of action and comedy, directed by and starring Taran Killam. The film presents a fresh take on the assassin genre, filled with humor, absurdity, and a cast of eccentric characters. With Arnold Schwarzenegger in the titular role, “Killing Gunther” offers a quirky and entertaining ride that stands out in the crowded field of action comedies.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Blake (Taran Killam), a hitman who is tired of being overshadowed by the world’s greatest assassin, Gunther (Arnold Schwarzenegger). Determined to eliminate Gunther and take his place at the top, Blake assembles a team of misfit assassins, each with their own unique skills and personalities.
Blake’s team includes Donnie (Bobby Moynihan), an explosives expert with a knack for causing chaos; Sanaa (Hannah Simone), a lethal femme fatale; and Gabe (Paul Brittain), a tech whiz who documents their mission. Despite their combined efforts, Gunther proves to be an elusive and formidable target, constantly staying one step ahead of them.
The film is shot in a mockumentary style, adding a layer of comedic absurdity as the team members frequently break the fourth wall to share their thoughts and frustrations. As their attempts to kill Gunther grow increasingly desperate and ridiculous, the film builds to a climactic showdown that reveals unexpected twists and turns.
Performances and Direction
Taran Killam delivers a solid performance as Blake, blending his comedic background with the character’s obsessive and ambitious nature. His portrayal adds depth to the otherwise over-the-top antics of the film. Bobby Moynihan and Hannah Simone provide strong comedic support, each bringing their own flair to their roles.
Arnold Schwarzenegger steals the show as Gunther, bringing his iconic charisma and action-hero persona to the role. His performance is both self-aware and humorous, embracing the film’s playful tone. Schwarzenegger’s ability to balance action and comedy is a highlight, making his appearances some of the most memorable moments in the film.
As a director, Killam successfully balances the film’s action sequences with its comedic elements. The mockumentary style allows for creative storytelling, with characters providing humorous commentary and insight into their mission. Killam’s direction ensures that the film maintains a brisk pace and a lighthearted tone, keeping viewers engaged and entertained.
Cinematography and Special Effects
The cinematography by Blake McClure complements the film’s mockumentary style, utilizing handheld cameras and dynamic angles to create an immersive and realistic feel. The use of on-the-fly interviews and candid shots adds to the comedic effect, making the audience feel like part of the bumbling assassination team.
The special effects and action sequences are well-executed, considering the film’s modest budget. The explosive set pieces and gunfights are choreographed with a comedic twist, ensuring that the action serves the story’s humorous tone. The visual effects enhance the absurdity of the team’s attempts to kill Gunther, adding to the overall entertainment value.
Themes and Humor
“Killing Gunther” explores themes of rivalry, ambition, and the absurdity of the assassin profession. The film satirizes the tropes of the action genre, using humor to highlight the ridiculousness of its characters and their mission. The mockumentary format allows for a unique blend of action and comedy, with characters frequently breaking the fourth wall to provide meta-commentary on their situation.
The film’s humor is a mix of physical comedy, witty dialogue, and situational absurdity. The interactions between the eccentric team members and their failed assassination attempts provide a constant stream of laughs. Schwarzenegger’s self-aware performance adds an extra layer of humor, as he pokes fun at his action-hero image.
Streaming and Purchase Options in America
For those looking to watch “Killing Gunther,” several streaming and rental/purchase options are available in America:
- Streaming Services:
- Hulu: Available for streaming with a Hulu subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with a Prime membership or for individual rental/purchase.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- Amazon: The movie can be rented or purchased in HD format, providing high-quality viewing.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Offers both rental and purchase options, suitable for Android users.
- Apple iTunes: Users can rent or buy the film in HD, ensuring optimal viewing on Apple devices.
Conclusion
“Killing Gunther” (2017) is a refreshing and humorous take on the assassin genre, with Taran Killam’s directorial debut showcasing his comedic talents. The film’s mockumentary style, combined with strong performances from Killam and Schwarzenegger, makes for an entertaining and unique cinematic experience. With its blend of action, comedy, and satirical commentary, “Killing Gunther” offers a fun and engaging ride that is sure to delight fans of both genres. Whether you’re a fan of Arnold Schwarzenegger or simply looking for a good laugh, “Killing Gunther” is worth adding to your watchlist.
