The worlds of art and horror have always shared a unique connection. The term "arthouse" typically conjures images of films that stimulate the imagination more than the senses. But what if these two worlds collided in real time, with a twist that leans more towards criminal intrigue than traditional horror, all while reuniting the talented Uma Thurman and Samuel L. Jackson? Enter Nicol Paone's latest caper flick, "The Kill Room." A dark and clever thriller that offers both thrills and laughs.
The storyline revolves around Thurman, a struggling art dealer at the end of her financial rope. She's in dire need of a cash infusion to maintain the status quo. In an unexpected turn of events, she forms an unlikely partnership with a local money launderer, played by Samuel L. Jackson. The name of the game is money, but the art must remain at the forefront. Things take an intriguing twist when the "art" created by their henchman, Joe Manganiello, starts to attract more attention than they bargained for. This sets off a chain reaction of chaos, violence, and humor as they attempt to navigate this intricate scheme.
While "The Kill Room" delves into some dark and unsettling territory regarding the fate of its victims, you'll be too busy laughing to dwell on it. In the end, this film is a dark comedy with a sharp, well-crafted script that highlights the naivety not only within the art world but also among consumers. What truly defines art? As the movie suggests, it's all about perception and desire. In a world where the values of everything else can fluctuate due to normal circumstances, art remains an outlier. Joe Manganiello's portrayal of an artist whose work turns into a darkly humorous art form is more gratuitous than the money spent on his creations.
If you enjoy casual dark comedies with a touch of violence, "The Kill Room" should be right up your alley. Featuring a stellar cast, you might wonder why this film didn't receive more widespread recognition. However, as you watch the first 20 minutes, you'll understand that it treads a fine line. It's far from a throwaway film, but it wisely keeps things concise and focused, delivering exactly what it needs to.
3/5
THE KILL ROOM
Starring Uma Thurman, Joe Manganiello, and Samuel L. Jackson
Directed by Nicol Paone and Written by Jonathan Jacobson