How to Be a Serial Killer

How to Be a Serial Killer is a 2008 satirical American dark comedy horror film directed by Luke Ricci. The film notably features Dameon Clarke, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Laura Regan in prominent roles. The story pivots around Clarke's character, Mike Wilson, a charming, multi-faceted serial killer who sets out to mentor a hapless but eager protege in this unusual craft.

Mike Wilson, portrayed by Dameon Clarke, isn't your everyday average Joe. Beneath his charming exterior lurks the mind of a well-disciplined serial killer. Secure in his belief that everyone harbors an inner killer, he operates under the dogma that murder is something of an art form. He believes that killing is not a senseless act of horror, but rather a cathartic, liberating, and necessary part of society, and he’s eager to share this philosophy with others.

Enter Bart, played by the talented Matthew Gray Gubler, a dissatisfied 20-something trailer park resident leading an otherwise mundane life. He becomes an apprentice under Mike's profound tutoring. The intriguing dynamics of their relationship form the crux of the film. Mike takes advantage of Bart's disillusionment with his own existence and fascinated by Mike's charisma, the young man readily submits to Wilson’s psycho-mentoring.

Laura Regan appears in the film as Abigail, Mike's girlfriend, who initially seems oblivious to Mike's nocturnal activities. Regan brings an interesting perspective to the film, reflecting the unsuspecting society eluded by killers of Mike's kind. Her character is pivotal in developing the plot and contributing to its climactic resolution.

Though the subject seems grim, the movie has a tongue-in-cheek feel, almost approaching the topic with an undercurrent of subtle humor as it deliberately transforms into a satirical self-help guide. The narrative often takes the form of 'lessons' being passed from Mike to Bart, even adding in infowars-style documentary sequences entitled "lessons from the master". It skillfully shows, and indirectly makes us question, the power of persuasive charm and the extent of gullibility when someone is desperate for a sense of purpose in life.

Director Luke Ricci presents a unique perspective on how a serial killer sees the world, lending a striking balance between horror and dark humor. Viewers are taken on a first-person journey into the psychotic mind, which is perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the film. Certainly not for the faint-hearted, some scenes might impact sensitive viewers, but, for the most part, its satirical approach maintains an element of neutrality that avoids outright glorification of its grim subject matter.

Moreover, throughout the narrative, viewers are invited to ponder about reality vs. personality illusions, social norms, and taboos in a way that casual viewers might not expect. It broaches society's fascination with serial killers and mocks it by flipping the narrative to an almost comedic tone.

Adding a dimension to the film is the technical brilliance, with the cinematography reflecting the dichotomy between the mundane routines of everyday life and the bizarre, twisted undercurrent that starts emerging as the plot unfolds. The sound design cleverly cues the tension and suspense, enhancing the dramatic moments of the film.

The screenplay maintains a swift pace accompanied by witty dialogues, avoiding drawn-out sequences and keeping the viewer engaged to the end. The performances by the lead actors are gripping, with Dameon Clarke’s stellar portrayal of the charismatic and propagandist serial killer Mike setting a highlight. Matthew Gray Gubler also stands out, expressing Bart’s initial naivete and gradual descent into insanity convincingly. Laura Regan, in a more subdued role, is the epitome of the girl-next-door, her character serving to further amplify the contrast between ordinary life and the sinister world that exists parallel to it.

How to Be a Serial Killer is, therefore, less a straightforward thriller and more an eccentric demonstration of the human psyche's darkest corners, cloaked in a sheath of humor. Despite its unsettling premise, the film achieves a curious blend of horror, comedy, and satire, making for an entertaining watch that will simultaneously provoke thought and incite laughter amid the shivers. The movie suits anyone seeking a different, darker take on the traditional serial killer genre or a fan of off-kilter comedy will surely enjoy this unique blend of macabre humor.