New Town Killers

Watch New Town Killers

"A game. A hunt. A kill."
  • R
  • 2008
  • 1 hr 37 min
  • 5.6  (1,844)

New Town Killers is an intense British thriller from 2008 that is guaranteed to keep viewers on the edge of their seat. The movie follows the story of two wealthy Edinburgh bankers, Alistair and Jamie, who enjoy playing a twisted game with desperate teenagers. The film opens with a young man named Sean being chased through the streets by a group of thugs who want to hurt him. He seeks refuge with Alistair and Jamie, who offer to help him out of his predicament in exchange for playing a dangerous game. The game requires Sean to navigate dangerous obstacles throughout the city over the course of one night. If he succeeds, he will win £10,000, but if he fails, he will suffer brutal consequences.

As Sean sets out on his journey, it becomes clear that the obstacles he must overcome are not physical, but psychological. He is repeatedly confronted with moral dilemmas that test his character, and must confront his own demons in order to survive.

Meanwhile, his pursuers, led by the sadistic Malky, are hot on his heels, determined to catch him and extract their own revenge.

The performances in New Town Killers are outstanding. Dougray Scott, known for his roles in Mission: Impossible II and Hemlock Grove, delivers a chilling portrayal of Alistair, the sociopathic banker who delights in tormenting vulnerable teenagers. His sidekick Jamie, played by Alastair Mackenzie (Monarch of the Glen), is just as detestable, despite his seemingly more sympathetic demeanor.

James Anthony Pearson, in his breakout role as Sean, delivers a nuanced performance that captures the vulnerability and resilience of the character. He is a true underdog, whose triumph over adversity is as inspiring as it is heart-wrenching.

The movie is set against the backdrop of Edinburgh at night, and the cinematography captures the city's gorgeous architecture and haunting landscapes in a way that is both beautifully atmospheric and intensely claustrophobic. The viewer is made to feel as though they are right there with Sean, running through the alleys and across the rooftops, trying to escape the clutches of his pursuers.

The film's soundtrack is also a standout element. The atmospheric score by composer Simon Rogers expertly ratchets up the tension, while the inclusion of songs by bands like The Prodigy and Glasvegas give the film an edgy, contemporary feel.

Overall, New Town Killers is a well-crafted and highly entertaining thriller that is sure to delight fans of the genre. It's a fast-paced, high-stakes ride that will keep viewers guessing until the very end. Imagine a mix of Trainspotting and The Running Man, and you'll have a pretty good idea of what to expect from this electrifying film.

New Town Killers
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Description
  • Release Date
    2008
  • MPAA Rating
    R
  • Runtime
    1 hr 37 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.6  (1,844)