Why Did Harry Try To Kill Bullock

Why Did Harry Try to Kill Bullock? Exploring the Complexities of "Kill List"

The unsettling climax of Ben Wheatley's "Kill List" leaves audiences grappling with the film's ambiguous ending and the motivations of its protagonist, Harry. While the film doesn't explicitly state why Harry attempts to kill Jay, the seemingly random final target, understanding his actions requires delving into the layers of the narrative, exploring themes of guilt, disillusionment, and the insidious nature of violence. This article will dissect the potential reasons behind Harry's actions, examining the film's symbolism and leaving room for audience interpretation.

This meta-analysis delves into the dark psychological undercurrents of the film, questioning Harry's sanity and the moral ambiguity woven into the plot. We explore the film's use of symbolism, specifically concerning the sacrifices demanded by the mysterious contracts and the corrosive effects of violence on the human psyche.

The Crumbling Foundation of Morality: The Weight of Past Actions

Harry's attempt on Jay's life can't be understood in isolation. His entire arc is defined by a descent into moral ambiguity, fueled by the increasingly brutal nature of his assignments. Each successful "hit" seemingly erodes his sense of self, leading to a numbness and detachment that culminate in his attack on Jay. The initial contract, while seemingly straightforward, slowly reveals itself as a descent into a ritualistic, satanic conspiracy. This reveals the destructive power of the 'job' and its ability to twist even the most hardened individuals. He is no longer just a hitman; he becomes a pawn in a disturbing game of violence.

The Ritualistic Nature of the Killings and the Loss of Control

The film subtly hints at a spiritual or ritualistic element to the killings. The meticulously planned nature of each assassination, combined with the increasingly bizarre circumstances surrounding them, suggests that Harry is not simply carrying out contracts, but participating in something far more sinister. This loss of control, of his own agency, is apparent in the chaotic final act. The ritualistic aspects blur the lines between professional assassination and a descent into madness, making Jay's seemingly random selection less arbitrary and more a symbolic conclusion of his downward spiral. This makes the question of "why" Jay, less important than the exploration of why Harry's actions are so erratic and violent.

Jay as a Catalyst: A Reflection of Harry's Internal Struggle

Could Jay represent something more than a random target? Perhaps he serves as a symbol of the innocent caught in the crossfire of Harry's brutal world, a reflection of Harry's own growing guilt and self-loathing. The increasingly unpredictable nature of the assignments, culminating in the chaotic finale involving Jay, suggests a complete breakdown of Harry’s moral compass. The target selection becomes less logical and more symbolic, pointing to Harry's descent into madness. This makes the attempt on Jay's life less about a specific motive and more about a culmination of all the violence and moral compromise Harry has endured.

The Unanswerable Question: Interpreting the Ambiguity

Ultimately, "Kill List" avoids providing a definitive answer to the question of why Harry attempts to kill Jay. The film’s strength lies in its ambiguity, forcing the audience to grapple with the complexities of Harry’s psyche and the brutal consequences of violence. The lack of a clear, straightforward answer leaves the viewer to ponder the nuances of the film's unsettling narrative and consider the multitude of factors contributing to Harry's actions. The ambiguity is, itself, a powerful statement.

In conclusion, the attempt on Jay’s life is not a simple act of violence but a culmination of Harry’s psychological breakdown, driven by the accumulating weight of his actions, the insidious nature of his work, and the possibly ritualistic aspects of the contracts. The film challenges us to interpret the events, leaving the "why" ultimately open to individual interpretation, adding to the film's lasting power and unsettling resonance.