What starts out as a commonplace domestic drama between a man and wife rapidly morphs into a top-notch action genre piece as the man is recalled to service as a contract killer. Kill List then rapidly evolves into the horror genre as a surprising twists incorporates Druid ceremonies into the plot.

Director Ben Wheatley previously helmed a similar genre mixer Down Terrace (from 2024) that played at festivals, in fact winning a prize at that year’s Fantastic Fest.

Kill List examines the mindset of people who lose control of their situation. The tonal shifts are excellent and give Kill List the kind of timing and feeling that elude many studio actioners. Kill List is currently playing exclusively at the Alamo Drafthouse West Oaks.

- Michael Bergeron