Review: ‘Kill Me Deadly’ mixes entertainment and L.A. history in a fun-filled film

Walking into the Haugh Performing Arts Center for the viewing of “Kill Me, Deadly” on Sunday, April 24, I have to admit I was a bit skeptical. Having no previous knowledge of the plot of the film nor the original play, I really didn’t know what to expect.

However, after the lights dimmed and the film began rolling, I was reassured by the responses of laughter and awe in the audience that soon followed.

“Criminal Minds” star Kirsten Vangsness stars as Mona in the film “Kill Me Deadly” which premiered in the Haugh Performing Art Center on April 24.

The film is based on Bill Robens’ playwright, “Kill Me, Deadly” released in 2009, and was adapted onstage by Citrus College performers in 2012. Paying homage to the play, Citrus hosted a screening of the newest 2015 silver-screen version for fans to enjoy.

The film is set in the late 1940’s. The story began with private investigator Charlie Nickles, played by Dean Lemont, who we follow throughout the show on a frenzy of emotions including suspense, irony, and comedy, as he hunts down an unknown serial murderer.

Lemont and the rest of the cast were hilarious in their exaggerated depictions of old Hollywood stereotypes. We see the struggling performer, beautiful and sweet, but finds her biggest gig is alongside a piano at the local bar. A wealthy family, who seem to believe diamonds are the most important things in life. The detective, handsome and witty, and popular with the women, and finally, the bumbling gangsters, who despite their best efforts, are foiled at every turn. All these characters and more are seen linked together in one hilarious performance of mystery.

For being someone who, among my friends and family, notoriously dislikes black and white films, I was pleasantly surprised and found myself enjoying this one quite a bit.

The aesthetic of the film transports the viewers to 1940’s Los Angeles, enough to make me feel as if I were right there along the characters, investigating crimes myself.

Visually, the film was beautifully shot. Director Darrett Sanders did an amazing job at capturing the ambience of such an old but interesting decade, using stunning costumes, props, and brilliant angles.

The film is not only a great work of fiction, but also a fascinating look into the history of Los Angeles, where many of us have grown up and are familiar with.

As one of the youngest audience members of the showing, I strongly encourage fellow youngsters to see this film that has been adapted onscreen for us to enjoy anywhere.

It’s guaranteed to keep you on your toes and laughing throughout. You won’t regret it!