Review In A Nutshell:

Creating an elaborate noir through cross-cutting, inner-monologue, and flashbacks, Killer’s Kiss is the first glimpse of the filmmaker in full form. The film is primarily cold and punishing, with characters either traumatised, subjects of failure, or victims of unrequited love. There is, however, a surprising dash of hope in the relationship between the boxer and the dancer, neighbours who relate to one another’s sense of emptiness and defeat, seeking an escape from this crushing city. We gain a glimpse of Kubrick’s desire to innovate through elaborate camerawork, unexpected visual effects, and unorthodox perspectives; contributions that compensate the film’s weak acting and overall story - although these elements were a grand improvement than what was offered in his debut.