Barbara is the only thing that stands between terrible giants and the destruction of her small town. But as she boldly confronts her fears in increasingly dangerous ways, she begins to question everything shes always believed to be true.
**”I Kill Giants”** is a 2017 fantasy drama directed by Anders Walter, based on the graphic novel by Joe Kelly and J.M. Ken Niimura. The film stars Madison Wolfe as Barbara Thorson, a troubled young girl who escapes the challenges of her life through a vivid fantasy world.
### Summary
Set in a small coastal town, “I Kill Giants” follows Barbara, a fiercely independent and imaginative girl who believes she is a giant slayer. Struggling to fit in at school, Barbara isolates herself from her peers, instead dedicating her time to preparing for the arrival of giant monsters that she insists threaten her town. Her obsession with these imaginary creatures serves as both an escape from her reality and a coping mechanism for deeper emotional struggles.
As Barbara navigates her daily life, she befriends Sophia (Sydney Wade), a new girl at school who is drawn to Barbara’s eccentricity. Their friendship offers a glimpse of normalcy and connection that Barbara desperately needs. Meanwhile, Barbara’s home life is tumultuous; she lives with her older sister, whom she feels she must protect, and their mother, who is dealing with her own issues.
Barbara’s elaborate preparations to confront the giants, including crafting weapons and setting traps, showcase her determination and fierce spirit. However, her imaginative battles against the giants begin to blur with the harsh realities of her life, forcing her to confront her fears and the painful truths she has been avoiding.
As the story unfolds, the line between fantasy and reality becomes increasingly tenuous. The film culminates in a poignant climax where Barbara must face not just the giants she has imagined, but the real-life challenges that have been looming over her. This confrontation is both cathartic and heartbreaking, leading to profound personal growth.
### Visuals and Cinematic Elements
“I Kill Giants” employs stunning visuals to represent Barbara’s fantastical world, utilizing imaginative special effects to bring the giants to life. The cinematography captures the contrast between the bleakness of Barbara’s reality and the vibrant imagination she employs to cope. The film’s aesthetic successfully draws viewers into both the fantasy elements and the emotional core of the story.
### Themes and Messages
The film explores themes of grief, isolation, and the power of imagination as a coping mechanism. It highlights the importance of confronting one’s fears and the reality of difficult situations. Barbara’s journey emphasizes the necessity of vulnerability and the value of friendship in overcoming life’s giants—both real and imagined.
### Conclusion
“I Kill Giants” is a touching and visually arresting exploration of a young girl’s battle with her inner demons. It resonates with audiences through its blend of fantasy and reality, offering a powerful narrative about resilience and acceptance.
### Trailer Summary
The trailer showcases the film’s enchanting visuals, giving viewers a glimpse into Barbara’s imaginative world filled with giants. It highlights her fierce determination and the emotional stakes of her journey. Dramatic music sets an engaging tone, capturing the blend of fantasy and poignant storytelling that characterizes the film, ultimately inviting viewers to join Barbara in her extraordinary battle.
