King Of Killers Blu-ray Review
“King Of Killers” is as bland as can be.
Based on the graphic novel by Kevin Grevioux (who also wrote and directed this feature film adaptation), “King Of Killers” revolves around a man named Marcus who lives two lives. In his homelife, he’s a father and husband. In his work life, he’s a deadly assassin that works for Mr. X. While on the job one night, his wife is murdered in cold blood. As he tries to find her killer, he receives devastating news that his daughter needs a new heart. In need of money, he accepts a $10 million dollar assignment in Tokyo to take out the alleged deadliest assassin Drakos. The assignment, as it turns out, was a lie. Marcus finds himself in competition with other assassins (Asha, Dyson, Andre, Rick and Ren) to try and kill Drakos who just so happens to be the man that hired them all. Is Drakos just playing a game to see if he really is the greatest assassin or is there an ulterior motive to his game?
Best known for creating the “Underworld” franchise, Kevin Grevioux appears to be building a new action franchise although it’s unlikely viewers will be clamoring for more (even though there is a very clear sequel set-up). If you enjoy action movies with endless shootouts and hand-to-hand combat, “King Of Killers” may have some appeal. For those seeking more substance, you won’t find it here.
Instead of crafting an intense action story with high stakes, ‘Killers’ comes across as a tedious bore with no suspense. The story is mostly comprised of scenes of characters wandering around a building before encountering Drakos. Not even the spin on “Most Dangerous Game” is really explored much here as the entire concept just builds towards the inevitable showdown between two characters. Yes, there’s a “twist” in the third act, but it only serves as a hook for the above mentioned sequel tease.
Action wise, the fight sequences are fairly well done, but the shootouts look lousy across the board. CGI bullets and blood is never the way to go.
Whenever Frank Grillo is listed as a cast member it’s a sure bet he’ll be one of the best parts of the movie if not the best part. To no surprise, Grillo owns the movie completely as Drakos. The veteran actor should be in bigger movies. Same can be said for Stephen Dorff who sadly only has a few scenes. Georges St-Pierre has little to do here which is a shame as the movie would have benefited from his presence. Marie Avgeropoulos brings some much needed energy to the movie, but her character is also wasted here. Alain Moussi may be the star, but he’s badly miscast. He’s a talented martial artist and stuntman to be sure, but he’s not leading man material. He doesn’t have the charisma or gravitas to carry a movie.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. Grade: B+
Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. Grade: B+
Extras include a behind the scenes featurette, a “King of Killers” trailer, a Digital copy and a DVD copy.
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