
You Killed Me First 1985
Richard Kern's raw, unsettling short film *You Killed Me First (1985)* plunges into the rebellious spirit of a teenage girl trapped in a stifling suburban home.
Director: Richard Kern
Cast



Frequently Asked Questions
What is *You Killed Me First (1985)* about?
*You Killed Me First* follows Elizabeth, a defiant teenager who chafes under her parents' rigid expectations, retreating into a world of dark creativity. As their hypocrisy pushes her to a breaking point, her suppressed rage ignites into a violent confrontation, culminating in a haunting act of vengeance.
Who directed *You Killed Me First*?
The film was directed by Richard Kern, an influential figure in the 1980s New York underground scene known for his provocative and experimental approach to filmmaking.
Who stars in *You Killed Me First*?
The cast features Lung Leg in the lead role, alongside David Wojnarowicz, Karen Finley, Jessica Craig-Martin, and Montanna Houston.
Is *You Killed Me First (1985)* worth watching?
Though it's an unrated short film, *You Killed Me First* stands out for its raw intensity and cult appeal. Fans of 1980s experimental cinema or dark, character-driven horror will find its themes of rebellion and catharsis compelling.
How long is *You Killed Me First*?
The runtime for *You Killed Me First* is approximately 11 minutes.
About You Killed Me First (1985) — A raw, cult horror-drama of teenage rebellion and revenge
Richard Kern's raw, unsettling short film *You Killed Me First (1985)* plunges into the rebellious spirit of a teenage girl trapped in a stifling suburban home. Elizabeth, a darkly creative loner, rejects her parents' oppressive religious expectations, retreating into a shadowy bedroom where she crafts eerie voodoo dolls and immerses herself in occult art. When the hypocrisy of her tormentors becomes unbearable, her pent-up rage erupts in a violent reckoning, culminating in her chilling declaration: "You killed me first." Shot in stark, gritty tones, Kern's film blends drama and horror to explore themes of teenage alienation, generational conflict, and the explosive consequences of suppressed identity.
Starring the iconic Lung Leg alongside David Wojnarowicz and Karen Finley, *You Killed Me First* is a cult artifact of 1980s underground cinema, praised for its unflinching portrayal of youthful defiance and emotional extremity.