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Killing Them Softly
2012 97 min United States of America R 18+
★6.4
Crime, Thriller
Director: Andrew Dominik
📖 Based on the novel
«Cogan's Trade»
byGeorge V. Higgins
Trailers
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Description
Jackie Cogan is an enforcer hired to restore order after three dumb guys rob a Mob protected card game, causing the local criminal economy to collapse.
Budget:
$15M
US Gross:
$15.03M
Worldwide:
$37.93M
Starring
Brad Pitt
Actor
Ray Liotta
Actor
Richard Jenkins
Actor
Awards
Cannes Film Festival 2012
— Palme d'Or
Key opinion
Killing Them Softly is a polarizing crime drama that prioritizes atmospheric dialogue and political allegory over traditional heist tropes and action. While praised by some for its stylish direction and strong lead performances, others find the pacing sluggish and the narrative depth inconsistent.
| Acting | Brad Pitt anchors the film with a compelling, elegant performance as the cynical hitman Jackie Cogan. | |
| Cinematography | The cinematography and production design effectively establish a gritty, realistic aesthetic that defines the film's visual identity. | |
| Theme | The film utilizes the 2008 economic crisis and political news cycles as a deliberate, albeit divisive, backdrop for its crime-focused narrative. | |
| Pacing | The reliance on dense, conversational dialogue rewards viewers seeking character-driven noir but alienates those expecting a fast-paced thriller. | |
| Screenplay | Critics are split on the screenplay, with some praising the sharp, ironic dialogue and others labeling the plot as incoherent or underdeveloped. |