“Halloween” gets mashed up with “Back to the Future” in the totally cheeky and knowing “Totally Killer.” This tricky genre mix from director Nahnatchka Khan (“Always Be My Maybe,” “Fresh Off the Boat”) is a fish-out-of-water comedy filled with amusing one-liners combined with time-travel sci-fi that actually kinda makes sense. If anything, the horror element of this horror movie is the weakest part, but “Totally Killer” is spry enough to remain enjoyable throughout. That’s mostly because of the enormously engaging presence of Kiernan Shipka, who has a natural way with zippy dialogue and the dramatic chops to navigate some tough tonal shifts. The script from David Matalon & Sasha Perl-Raver, and Jen D’Angelo requires the “Mad Men” star to evolve from surly teen to grief-stricken daughter to intrepid investigator, and she pulls it all off with aplomb.
Totally Killer:
A Unique Blend of Halloween and Time-Travel
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like if the spooky spirit of Halloween collided head-on with the time-traveling adventures of “Back to the Future,” then look no further than “Totally Killer.” Director Nahnatchka Khan’s inventive mashup takes you on a wild ride through a genre-defying landscape, where comedy, science fiction, and horror converge into one seriously entertaining package.
The premise of “Totally Killer” centers around Kiernan Shipka’s character, who finds herself caught in a whirlwind of absurdity when she inadvertently stumbles upon a time-traveling DeLorean on Halloween night. What follows is a rollercoaster of events that defy logic and genre conventions, all delivered with a dose of cheeky humor and knowing nods to the classics that inspired it.
Kiernan Shipka Shines Bright in “Totally Killer”
While “Totally Killer” may seem like a cinematic experiment on paper, it’s the exceptional talent of Kiernan Shipka that elevates the film to a whole new level. Shipka, best known for her role in “Mad Men,” brings her A-game to the table, effortlessly embodying the surly teen, the grief-stricken daughter, and the intrepid investigator all in one. Her charismatic presence and impeccable delivery of zippy dialogue keep the audience engaged from start to finish.
One of the standout features of “Totally Killer” is its ability to seamlessly blend humor and science fiction. The witty one-liners and comedic timing are nothing short of delightful, making it clear that this film doesn’t take itself too seriously. However, it’s the time-travel element that truly sets it apart. Unlike many time-travel narratives that leave you scratching your head, “Totally Killer” manages to craft a coherent and engaging sci-fi storyline that adds depth to the overall narrative.
A Playful Take on Horror
While “Totally Killer” excels in the realms of comedy and science fiction, it’s worth noting that the horror element is perhaps the weakest link in the chain. However, this is by design, as the film’s approach to horror is intentionally playful and tongue-in-cheek. It doesn’t aim to terrify its audience with jump scares or gruesome visuals. Instead, it infuses humor into its horror, resulting in a unique and entertaining twist on the genre.
The film’s ability to balance multiple tones is a testament to the skillful direction of Nahnatchka Khan. Known for her work on hit comedies like “Always Be My Maybe” and “Fresh Off the Boat,” Khan brings her knack for comedy to “Totally Killer” while also handling the complex elements of time travel and emotional depth with finesse.
In conclusion, “Totally Killer” is a refreshing and creative cinematic experience that defies genre boundaries. It’s a testament to the power of skilled storytelling and exceptional performances. Kiernan Shipka’s magnetic presence, combined with the witty script and inventive direction, makes this film a must-watch for anyone looking for something entirely different yet wholly enjoyable. So, if you’re ready to embark on a wild journey where Halloween meets “Back to the Future,” “Totally Killer” is totally the movie for you.
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