In David Fincher’s latest film, “The Killer,” the nameless lead character portrayed by Michael Fassbender defies the typical conventions of a sleek and soulless movie assassin. Instead, this oddball executioner is clad in a bucket hat, consumes meals for functionality rather than pleasure, and rarely speaks in the presence of other characters. Adapted from a French graphic novel series, the screenwriter Andrew Kevin Walker intentionally designed this character as “the anti-James Bond, almost alien.” In this article, learn how to build an oddball executioner using seven easy steps, from embracing your inner monologue to dressing for anonymity and keeping a consistent soundtrack.
Building an Oddball Executioner in David Fincher Style
Introduction
In the world of movie assassins, characters often embody a sleek and ruthless persona, staying undetectable until it’s too late. However, David Fincher’s film “The Killer” takes a different approach, introducing an oddball executioner whose numerous quirks defy the genre stereotypes. Portrayed by Michael Fassbender, the lead character in “The Killer” embraces a unique blend of characteristics that set him apart from traditional hitmen. In this article, we will explore seven easy steps to build an oddball executioner in David Fincher style.
Embrace your inner monologue
One of the defining features of the oddball executioner in “The Killer” is his loquacious inner monologue. While the character embraces a cheerful voice-over, sharing his life philosophy influenced by Popeye and Aleister Crowley, he hardly speaks in the presence of other characters onscreen. According to screenwriter Andrew Kevin Walker, the character’s limited spoken dialogue was a deliberate choice by Fincher to create a silent movie atmosphere, complemented by the character’s extensive inner dialogue.
Dress for anonymity
To blend into the background and evade detection, the oddball executioner in “The Killer” is often seen dressed like a guileless tourist. The character’s goal is to become human wallpaper, essentially fading into the surroundings. Embracing a tourist persona aligns with this objective, and to accentuate the inconspicuousness, the character dons a bucket hat as part of his disguise. According to Walker, the bucket hat was chosen for its quirky and unassuming nature.
Eat like nobody’s watching
Unlike the typical foodie stereotype associated with movie characters, the oddball executioner in “The Killer” focuses on a diet that emphasizes fuel rather than pleasure. Scenes depict the character casually consuming meals like McMuffins, stripping them down to their proteins, or ingesting prepackaged hard-boiled eggs with practicality. The character’s approach to food reflects his utilitarian attitude, seeking sustenance rather than culinary enjoyment. Walker describes these unconventional food choices as the character’s fine dining.
Exercise efficiently
Maintaining physical fitness is crucial for any executioner, and the oddball executioner in “The Killer” follows a lean and mean fitness routine. The character adapts to limited resources and confined spaces, as he may not have access to traditional gym equipment like barbells or resistance bands. Instead, the character relies on DIY fitness methods, utilizing his surroundings to stay in shape. Even in a room full of art, the character walks past without taking notice, emphasizing his focus on efficient exercise.
Borrow all the famous names you need
To create a trail of false identities, the oddball executioner in “The Killer” utilizes multiple pop-culture aliases. By adopting names like Felix Unger, Lou Grant, Sam Malone, and Robert Hartley, the character leaves behind a series of pseudonyms that reference TV touchstones such as “The Odd Couple,” “Cheers,” and “The Bob Newhart Show.” Walker explains that these fictional figures hold personal significance to him, and their use adds a recurring homage in the film.
Keep the soundtrack consistent
In “The Killer,” music plays a significant role, but not as a source of enjoyment for the character. As a character who spends a lot of time alone, the oddball executioner uses music to occupy a certain level of his subconscious. The film includes an all ’80s soundtrack, curated by Fincher to stay consistent with the character’s attributes. The music, particularly songs by the Smiths, serves as a background presence, helping to prevent the character’s thoughts from overwhelming him.
Eyes on the prize
The oddball executioner in “The Killer” possesses an intense and unwavering stare, emphasizing his focus and determination. Known for rarely blinking throughout the film, Michael Fassbender’s portrayal of the character maintains a steadfast gaze that captures the audience’s attention. This unyielding eye contact showcases the character’s unwavering commitment and sets him apart from others who may falter in a stare-down.
In conclusion, David Fincher’s film “The Killer” introduces an oddball executioner who defies conventional hitman stereotypes. By embracing distinctive characteristics such as an inner monologue, a disguise of a tourist, a utilitarian diet, efficient exercise routines, multiple pop-culture aliases, a consistent soundtrack, and an intense gaze, the character stands out as a unique and intriguing figure. Through following these seven steps, one can build an oddball executioner in David Fincher’s style and create a captivating and unconventional character.
