Killing It
Killing It is a short thriller which delves into the psyche of Imogene, a self-stylised hero determined to save her friends from the harsh reality of modern living.
The theme of Killing It is centred around the morality of the individuals. Imogene sees herself as the saviour of her friends by whisking them away from the heartache and the very real dangers many women face in modern living. Though Imogene’s actions are reprehensible, her motivations are initially sympathetic, even relatable, especially by a female audience. It plays with the reality that it is not easy to watch friends suffer, and that the lengths one may go to in order protect loved ones can be surprising.
However, Imogene’s conflict with Jordan throughout the second half of the script brings the audience back to the reality of what Imogene has done, alongside some uncomfortable questions. How righteous are Imogene’s actions in her own mind? Is she getting more out of the murders than she is leading the audience to believe? With this tonal shift, the audience is left to wonder if they are still witnessing Imogene’s perceived moral justice or her hidden pursuit of pleasure.
Influenced by films such as American Psycho and The Voices, Imogene’s horrific actions are centred within a bubble of mundanity. The kitchen is the focal point, a recognisable feature in any home, which often plays host to communal gatherings of friendship and family. As with Patrick Bateman, who dresses himself for murder in the midst of a dialogue regarding Huey Lewis and the News, Imogene can be seen contemplating the sharpness of the knife in her hands as she and Katy talk about work and relationships. Though she seemingly pushes for reasons not to go through with the act, it is with a smile that she departs the kitchen.
Imogene’s conflict with Jordan and, ultimately, herself, can be seen reflected in the way that Jerry, the hapless yet likeable lead in The Voices, debates his own moral standing by conversing with his pets. The manifested voices of Mr. Whiskers and Bosco act almost as the devil and the angel perching on Jerry’s shoulders and his conversations with his previously murdered victims go a long way into disguising the true state, not only Jerry’s apartment but of his mind. Jordan’s appearance is initially angelic, bright with clean lines that bleed into the reality of what was done to her. Jordan’s shift in appearance strengthens as Imogene’s hold on her perceived truth lessens until Imogene must confront her own actions.
The final moments of Killing It reinforce the uncertainty felt throughout the film, inviting the audience to not only question Imogene’s morality, but to consider what impact this has had on her perception of reality.
