The Killer Elite
Mike Locken is one of the principal members of a group of freelance spies. A significant portion of their work is for the CIA, and while on a case for them one of his friends turns on him and shoots him in the elbow and knee. His assignment, to protect someone, goes down in flames. He is nearly crippled, but with braces is able to again become mobile. For revenge as much as anything else, Mike goes after his ex-friend.
Insights
Plot Summary
Mike Locken, a disillusioned mercenary, is pulled out of retirement by his former associate, George Hansen, for one last dangerous mission. The objective is to eliminate two targets who have betrayed a powerful corporation. However, Locken soon realizes that he's being manipulated by those in power, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse where betrayal and survival are paramount.
Critical Reception
The Killer Elite received mixed reviews upon its release. Critics praised its gritty action sequences and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Caan and Duvall, for bringing intensity to their roles. However, some found the plot convoluted and the violence excessive, with Peckinpah's signature style proving divisive.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its taut action and strong performances from James Caan and Robert Duvall.
- Criticized by some for its excessive violence and a complex, sometimes hard-to-follow plot.
- Seen as a characteristic Sam Peckinpah film, offering brutal thrills but lacking narrative coherence for some.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally appreciate the film's action and the chemistry between the leads, but some find the story's twists and turns a bit too convoluted. It's often viewed as a solid, if somewhat predictable, 70s action thriller.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in San Francisco and Hong Kong, with the climactic fight sequence taking place in the city's bustling markets.
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