Graphic Violence and Metacritique: A Review of Boy Kills World

The action-packed scenes in “Boy Kills World” are fast-paced and intense, with cameras moving quickly over, under, and through crowds of armed characters. Limbs break, bodies fly through the air, and blood is spilled in these violent sequences. The film’s portrayal of violence is similar to the sensationalism seen in other fight scenes, such as the Frosty Puffs massacre. The movie implies that all violence is connected to video games, like the character’s inspiration from a “Street Fighter” game for his voiceover narration.

The filmmakers behind “Boy Kills World” seem to insert themselves too much into the film, hindering the enjoyment of the action sequences. However, the meta-criticism within the film adds layers of complexity to the narrative. For example, Gideon’s frustration with an actor’s lack of feeling adds depth to the overall story. Unfortunately, these elements do not necessarily add meaning to the plot twists in the third act that disrupt the Boy’s revenge plans without providing any satisfying conclusions.

The lack of trust in the audience’s ability to connect emotionally with the film and underdeveloped performances by some cast members are evident in “Boy Kills World.” Despite this, actors like Copley, Skarsgård, and Ruhian deliver their roles effectively. Overall, it feels like “Boy Kills World” could have been directed and scripted by Van Der Koys themselves.