The Killer Inside Me

This obscure expose of insanity stars Stacy Keach as a small town sheriff with a penchant for murder. Rather than being a film about an insane madman, The Killer Inside Me focuses more on the psychological elements of insanity, and thereby provides a murderous movie with a hint of some brains behind it. The film is well written and the plot, while slow, remains interesting and engaging almost throughout. However, the plot does become a bit too slow at times, and despite a well timed performance from Stacy Keach, The Killer Inside Me sometimes becomes a little too slow and the film ultimately suffers because of it. The film is based on a book by Jim Thompson. I've never read the book that the film is based on, but the plot follows a small time sheriff who discovers that he has a murderous urge inside of him after the arrival of a prostitute upsets the balance between him and his childhood sweetheart. The sheriff then goes from all round nice law enforcement guy to brutal, cold-blooded killer as he murders his way through anyone that stands in his way.

The problem with the plot is really highlighted by the fact that it takes so long to get to the first murder. The film takes time to build the central character, thus making it more shocking once his schizophrenia does finally show through - but the build up to it is too slow, and that's not good when a film is claiming itself to be a 'thriller'. The Killer Inside Me also has a 'made for TV' aura about it. As far as I know, it wasn't made for TV; but the way that everything is very subdued and the support acting is nothing special gives it that sort of impression. The film really is held together by Stacy Keach, who gives it his all in the lead role. This actor really is underrated, as he often turns in memorable and assured performances, yet the cult star never gets the recognition he deserves. John Carradine is the only stand-out name from the rest of the cast, and he makes an appearance that is little more than a cameo. On the whole, as this film is rather obscure; I really can't see the point in purposely seeking it out. The Killer Inside Me is worth a watch if you do happen to stumble across a copy, but it's not a tragedy to miss it.

A real let down, the novel is such a brilliant stomach churning journey into madness but this made for TV movie style nonsense is turgid and painfully slow. Stick to Mike Hammer. I find it hard to believe that no body has made a brilliant version of this book, Kubrick gushes over it on the cover, he should have taken over the reins on this one. Stacey Keach is too soppy as Lou Ford, and the whole thing has the same production values as that seventies TV spin off, of Planet Of The Apes. I thoroughly recommend that you go out and buy lots of Jim Thompson novels though, actually The Grifters isn't done too badly, thats one of his, starring Jon Cusak.

Based on one of Jim Thompson's best novels, this sleeper went largely unnoticed in the mid-70's despite an excellent lead performance by Stacy Keach as Lou Ford, mild-mannered Montana deputy-sheriff whom everybody in the small town of Central City likes. An upcoming election, angry miners, and a hooker on the edge of town stir up trouble within the town and Keach.

The relationship between Keach and Susan Tyrrell as the hooker is one of the more intriguing cinematic couplings, made even more so in light of their recent work as a pair of drunks in Huston's "Fat City". Their actions are anything but predictable. Western-vet Burt Kennedy handles the direction chores ably, though the film is obviously constricted by a low-budget. Location work helps, and cinematographer William Fraker captures some nice "big sky" shots. However, several other scenes are poorly lit, with one straining to find the principals in the darkness and shadows. Considering the pro background of Kennedy and Fraker, I wonder if this was a comment on the characters' dark, shadowy personalities ... Another minor complaint is the music score, which seems wrong and intrusive at times.

The film has several veteran character actors, among them Royal Dano, John Carradine (in a nice scene with Keach toward the end), John Dehner, and Keenan Wynn. Best of all though is Don Stroud as Elmer, perhaps his quintessential beer-swilling, hot-headed, good ol' boy role. He balances his character's violent tendencies with a fair degree of bawdy humor (some would seem to be improvised), and would simply walk away with the picture if it were not for Keach being so strong and interesting in the lead. Certainly worth a look for the performances and subject matter.

Although Stacy Keach is quite good as the delusional sheriff of a small Montana mining town, it is Susan Tyrell as the local lady of the night, who is absolutely amazing in "The Killer Inside Me". The film opens weakly with some totally unnecessary narration, but gradually builds momentum. Don Stroud's performance, as the wild son of Mayoral candidate Keenan Wynn, is notable, and John Carradine also appears in a small role. There are a couple of minor surprises, along with some nice character development. If you are enamored with either Stacy Keach or Susan Tyrell, I say seek this one out, because you will not be disappointed. - MERK

This isn't a waste of time, nor is it one to fervently hunt for. It certainly could have done better for the brilliant author, Jim Thompson, and talented star Stacy Keach.

One problem is the slow development. It takes seemingly forever to get into the schizophrenic aspects of the character. I have seen films where such slow development is well handled with skillful forewarning of what is to come. Unfortunately, that's not the case here.

Veteran actors, Keenan Wynn, Royal Dano, and John Carradine show up here and buffs might find it worth watching this just to see their appearances.

All in all, it's an okay movie, but don't risk breaking your neck to see it...it's not worth it, pal.