The Killer Inside Me
This handsomely mounted adaptation of Jim Thompson’s pulp novel will likely hook lovers of film noir early on when Lou (Casey Affleck), a deputy sheriff, first spanks the law-breaking Joyce (Jessica Alba) and then begins having rough sex with her. Though viewers put off by the raw, brutal violence (towards women, especially) should steer clear. Lou’s relationship with Joyce develops quickly. The couple starts planning to get enough money to run away together and settle some old scores. Blackmail, hard-boiled dialogue, and some pretty nasty beatings and murders ensue before Lou’s crimes starts to unravel—and perhaps him along with it. The story is presented with considerable tension; as the plot twists pile up so too, does the body count. Director Michael Winterbottom’s film is gorgeously shot, and boasts great period detail. The fine central performance from Affleck and excellent support from character actors Ned Beatty and Bill Pullman also keep viewers engrossed. Ultimately, the amorality of The Killer Inside Me is what makes the film so riveting. Lou is an absolute sociopath—undeserving of sympathy—but audiences will marvel at how he manipulates the events to his satisfaction, even though much of the action lacks emotion.
 

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