First Kill (2017)

A Father-Son Bond Tested in a Tense Game of Survival

First Kill is a modest yet suspenseful action thriller that explores the limits of morality, trust, and a father’s desperate effort to reconnect with his son. Directed by Steven C. Miller, the film stars Hayden Christensen in a leading role alongside action icon Bruce Willis. While it follows familiar formulas, First Kill delivers enough tension and emotional stakes to engage fans of the genre.

Plot Summary

Will Beamon (Hayden Christensen) is a high-powered Wall Street broker who struggles to connect with his young son, Danny (Ty Shelton). In an effort to mend their relationship, he takes Danny on a hunting trip to his rural hometown. But what was meant to be a peaceful bonding experience turns deadly when they witness a violent crime in the woods: a police officer being shot during what appears to be a robbery gone wrong.

As Will attempts to help, he ends up entangled in a complex conspiracy involving dirty cops, stolen money, and a wounded criminal named Levi (Gethin Anthony), who takes Danny hostage. To save his son, Will is forced into a dangerous cat-and-mouse game that exposes corruption in the local police force, led by Chief Howell (Bruce Willis).

Themes and Tone

At its core, First Kill is about trust, redemption, and the choices we make under pressure. The film touches on the strained relationship between father and son, the desire to protect family at all costs, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It’s a character-driven action thriller that leans on emotional tension as much as physical conflict.

The tone is gritty and grounded, with an atmosphere that builds steadily toward a dramatic climax. It avoids excessive special effects in favor of realistic shootouts and intense dialogue exchanges.

Performances

Hayden Christensen delivers a convincing performance as a father caught between past mistakes and present danger. His portrayal of Will is layered with guilt, urgency, and vulnerability. Ty Shelton, in his debut role, shows promise as the young Danny, adding emotional depth to the narrative.

Bruce Willis plays the stoic and enigmatic police chief, bringing his usual screen presence, although in a more understated role compared to his iconic action films. Gethin Anthony also stands out as Levi, giving the “villain” unexpected complexity and sympathy.

Direction and Style

Director Steven C. Miller keeps the pacing tight, with well-executed action sequences and a sense of rising tension. While the film doesn’t reinvent the genre, its stripped-down style and intimate character focus make it more engaging than a typical low-budget thriller.

The cinematography effectively captures the isolation of the wooded setting, enhancing the feeling of being trapped and hunted. The score supports the suspense without overpowering the scenes.

Reception

First Kill received mixed reviews upon release. Critics noted its predictable plot but acknowledged the film’s solid performances and competent direction. While not a blockbuster or groundbreaking entry in the genre, it found an audience among fans of direct-to-video action dramas and those interested in more personal, grounded storytelling.

Conclusion

First Kill (2017) may not break new ground, but it succeeds in delivering a tense and emotional action thriller centered on family, loyalty, and survival. With Hayden Christensen in a strong lead role and Bruce Willis offering solid support, the film offers a satisfying watch for fans of suspenseful crime dramas.