‘They Will Kill You’ review: Horror and survival in a cult-controlled building
By William Muthama, March 28, 2026They Will Kill You, directed by Kirill Sokolov, is a horror-comedy that blends gory action, dark humour, and cult-themed chaos.
Produced by Andy and Barbara Muschietti, known for the It films, and released by Warner Bros on Thursday, March 26, 2026, the movie stars Zazie Beetz as a tough protagonist on a dangerous rescue mission.
The film follows Beetz’s character as she storms a mysterious apartment building called The Virgil to save her missing sister. Once inside, she must navigate deadly traps set by a murderous demonic cult.
The premise is straightforward but loaded with potential, offering a mix of survival horror, action-packed fights, and satirical “eat-the-rich” commentary.
Supporting roles are filled by Myha’La, Tom Felton, Heather Graham, Paterson Joseph, and Patricia Arquette, adding star power to the frenzied storyline.
Visually, the film makes the most of the apartment’s narrow spaces, turning hallways and rooms into settings full of suspense and danger.
Carlos Rafael Rivera’s music heightens the tension, while the fight scenes and practical effects deliver bursts of intense, gory action. Beetz gives a solid performance, balancing physical action with the emotional stakes of rescuing her sister.
Strengths and weaknesses
While the movie entertains, the film struggles to carve its own identity. The screenplay leans heavily on familiar horror tropes, estranged family drama, cult rituals, and social satire without adding fresh twists.
The humour often misses the mark, oscillating between forced satire and uneven dark comedy. Pacing issues emerge as the film repeatedly cycles through hallway chases and confrontations, making portions feel repetitive. Secondary characters, including the cult members, often lack depth or memorable menace.
Social commentary is present but surface-level, touching on wealth, privilege, and elitism without sharp execution.
While the film imitates stronger entries in the horror-comedy subgenre, it does deliver moments of entertainment, particularly for audiences seeking action-driven gore and suspense.
They Will Kill You offers a fun, mid-budget horror experience, anchored by Zazie Beetz’s star presence and well-executed action sequences.
While it may not redefine the genre, fans of chaotic, cult-themed horror will find enough thrills to make it a night watch.
Final Verdict: 6/10