First Kill
Performance & Direction: First Kill Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is First Kill (2017) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
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?
Story & Plot Summary: First Kill
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2017, First Kill is a Action, Thriller, Crime film directed by Steven C. Miller. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Bruce Willis.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Steven C. Miller establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. 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 for Bruce Willis, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title 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.
Ending Explained: First Kill
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Steven C. Miller, First Kill attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Bruce Willis, 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 directed by Steven C. Miller, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Bruce Willis's character.
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
Box Office Collection: First Kill
| 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.
Top Cast: First Kill
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Where to Watch First Kill Online?
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Apple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFirst Kill Parents Guide & Age Rating
2017 AdvisoryWondering about First Kill age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of First Kill is 97 minutes (1h 37m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.7/10, and global performance metrics, First Kill is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2017 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is First Kill worth watching?
First Kill is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 5.7/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find First Kill parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for First Kill identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of First Kill?
The total duration of First Kill is 97 minutes, which is approximately 1h 37m long.
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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 review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
