I Hired a Contract Killer Poster

I Hired a Contract Killer 1990

★ 6.8223 votes80 min📅 1990-10-12

Aki Kaurismäki's quirky and melancholic gem *I Hired a Contract Killer (1990)* weaves a darkly humorous tale of existential drift and unexpected redemption.

Director: Aki Kaurismäki

Cast

Jean-Pierre Léaud
Jean-Pierre Léaud
Henri
Margi Clarke
Margi Clarke
Margaret
Kenneth Colley
Kenneth Colley
The Killer
T.R. Bowen
T.R. Bowen
Departmen Head
Imogen Claire
Imogen Claire
Secretary
Angela Walsh
Angela Walsh
Landlady
Cyril Epstein
Cab Driver
Nicky Tesco
Nicky Tesco
Pete
Charles Cork
Charles Cork
Al
Michael O'Hagan
Michael O'Hagan
Killer's Boss

Frequently Asked Questions

What is I Hired a Contract Killer (1990) about?

The film follows Henri, a man who hires a killer to end his life after losing his job and feeling utterly alone. But just as he's resigned to his fate, he meets a woman who changes everything, making him question whether death—or life—is really what he wants.

Who directed I Hired a Contract Killer?

Aki Kaurismäki, the acclaimed Finnish filmmaker known for his deadpan humor and socially conscious storytelling.

Who stars in I Hired a Contract Killer?

The cast includes Jean-Pierre Léaud as Henri, Margi Clarke, Kenneth Colley, T.R. Bowen, and Imogen Claire.

Is I Hired a Contract Killer (1990) worth watching?

Aki Kaurismäki's offbeat drama offers a unique blend of dark comedy and existential reflection. While not everyone's cup of tea, its moody atmosphere and bittersweet story make it a compelling watch for fans of arthouse cinema.

How long is I Hired a Contract Killer?

The film runs for 80 minutes.

About I Hired a Contract Killer (1990) — A Dark Comedy About Fate, Love, and Second Chances

Aki Kaurismäki's quirky and melancholic gem *I Hired a Contract Killer (1990)* weaves a darkly humorous tale of existential drift and unexpected redemption. The film follows Henri, a disillusioned businessman on the brink of despair after losing his job and realizing he has no meaningful connections. Unable to take his own life, he hires a contract killer—only to find himself entangled in a bizarre twist of fate when a chance encounter with a kindred spirit reignites his will to live. Blending deadpan comedy with poignant drama, Kaurismäki crafts a moody, atmospheric story about loneliness, connection, and the absurdity of modern life.

With its understated performances and signature Nordic gloom, *I Hired a Contract Killer* stands out as a unique exploration of human vulnerability. The film's dry wit and moody visuals create a tone that's both bleak and oddly uplifting, making it a cult favorite among fans of offbeat cinema. Starring Jean-Pierre Léaud in a rare English-language role, the movie balances existential weight with a touch of absurd charm, leaving viewers with a bittersweet reflection on fate and serendipity.