The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then the Bigfoot (2018) film review

James Stocks
4 min readOct 16, 2023

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“The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then The Bigfoot” ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2.

A Hidden Gem of Emotion and Originality.

When it comes to the world of cinema, it’s not often that a film title as eccentric and intriguing as “The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then The Bigfoot” graces the screens. With a title that demands your attention, the film proves to be one of the biggest surprises I’ve ever watched, leaving an indelible mark on my cinematic journey. This unique and evocative tale, led by the remarkably talented Sam Elliott, not only defies expectations but also showcases the emotional depth of a seasoned actor often overlooked in Hollywood.

Sam Elliott, an actor with an incredibly rare ability to convey genuine emotion, is at the heart of this cinematic triumph. His portrayal of Calvin Barr, a reclusive war hero and assassin, is nothing short of exceptional.

From the very first frame, Elliott immerses himself so deeply into the character that it’s impossible to distinguish the actor from the role. His weathered face and gravelly voice add a layer of authenticity to his performance that’s second to none. It’s a testament to his talent that he can communicate the complexity of Calvin’s character with such subtlety and nuance, making us feel every emotion as if it were our own.

What’s truly astonishing is that despite Sam Elliott’s impressive body of work, he remains one of the most under-appreciated actors in the industry. His performances in “The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then The Bigfoot” and “A Star is Born” should serve as a wake-up call to those who have yet to fully recognise his brilliance.

With Elliot it’s always a masterclass in acting that commands recognition and applause.

The film itself is a raw and emotional journey. On the surface, it may appear to be a campy action-adventure film, but it delves much deeper. At its core, it’s a story of love, tenderness, and sacrifice.

Calvin Barr’s life is a lonely one, marked by the weight of his past deeds. His solitude is shattered when he is called upon to embark on a mission to kill the Bigfoot, who threatens humanity with a deadly contagion. The juxtaposition of his tough exterior with his internal struggle to find meaning in his life is both moving and thought-provoking.

The narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, expertly directed by Robert D. Krzykowski. The film explores themes of heroism, loneliness, and the price one pays for their actions. It’s a testament to Krzykowski’s storytelling that he manages to weave a coherent and emotionally resonant narrative out of such an outlandish premise. Every scene is dripping with poignancy, from the moments of intense action to the quieter, introspective ones.

“The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then The Bigfoot” is a genuinely original story, and this originality is one of its most outstanding attributes. In an industry filled with reboots, sequels, and adaptations, this film is a breath of fresh air. It’s not often that you come across a concept so audacious and ambitious, yet so beautifully executed. It refuses to conform to the typical Hollywood formulas, and in doing so, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling.

In conclusion, “The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then The Bigfoot” is a hidden gem that defies expectations and exemplifies the sheer talent of Sam Elliott. It’s a rare find in the world of cinema, where originality and emotion often take a back seat to commercial formulas.

Don’t get me wrong this film has its flaws and is far from perfect, but alongside that this film is a testament to the power of storytelling and serves as a reminder that sometimes the most remarkable films are the ones you least expect. Don’t let the title fool you; give this cinematic gem a chance, and you’ll be treated to a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave a lasting impact.

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James Stocks

Films are my life, so I want to dedicate my life to writing reviews and maybe one day making my own films. Currently studying MA Journalism at the Uni of Sheff