Is First Kill Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, First Kill is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
First Kill Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2017, First Kill emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Thriller, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A police chief tries to solve a kidnapping that involves a bank robber holding a young boy hostage. Unlike standard genre fare, First Kill attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and First Kill features a noteworthy lineup led by Bruce Willis . Supported by the likes of Hayden Christensen and Ty Joseph Shelton , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of First Kill (2017) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
First Kill Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: First Kill is a Action, Thriller, Crime film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. A police chief tries to solve a kidnapping that involves a bank robber holding a young boy hostage. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
First Kill Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: First Kill attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of First Kill reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
First Kill Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
First Kill incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, thriller, crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: First Kill adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch First Kill?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
First Kill Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $10.0M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
First Kill Budget
The estimated production budget for First Kill is $10.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of First Kill
- Bruce Willis – Howell
- Hayden Christensen – Will
- Ty Joseph Shelton – Danny
- Megan Leonard – Laura
- Gethin Anthony – Levi
Top Highlights
Bruce WillisHowell
Hayden ChristensenWill
Ty Joseph SheltonDanny
Megan LeonardLaura
Gethin AnthonyLevi
William DeMeoRichie
Deb G. GirdlerDottie
Tyler Jon OlsonTom
Shea BucknerCharlie
Magi AvilaAdele
Where to Watch First Kill Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
First Kill is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.7/10, and global collection metrics, First Kill stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2017 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is First Kill movie hit or flop?
First Kill has received mixed reviews with a 5.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is First Kill worth watching?
First Kill is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Thriller, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch First Kill online?
First Kill may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for First Kill
After his "I actually kinda tried" performance in _Once Upon a Time in Venice_ earlier this year, Bruce Willis has obviously circled back to "not giving a fuck". Hayden Christensen is likewise a non-event in _First Kill_, probably Steven C. Miller's least interesting movie. _Final rating:★½: - Boring/disappointing. Avoid where possible._
Good enough. I felt satisfied after watching 'First Kill'. Sure it isn't anything extremely memorable or overly creative/unique, but I came away feeling positive about it. It gave me what I wanted from a straight-to-video action film. Hayden Christensen is enjoyable in the lead role, and even Bruce Willis seemed to be trying at least; unlike, in my view anyway, in 2016's 'Precious Cargo'. Gethin Anthony, of 'Game of Thrones' fame, is good too - he features in the best scene of the film with child actor Ty Shelton. The plot is nothing close to being anything fresh, but it's suitable and it held my interest all the way through... I can't really ask for more. 3*.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
