70
Metascore
8 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- Berardini’s film follows a narrative trajectory impressive in any documentary, let alone one by a rookie filmmaker. The debut effort is commendable, both for its handling of a complex issue, as well as for its engagement factor.
- 80Village VoiceDaphne HowlandVillage VoiceDaphne HowlandFootage of the now-wealthy Smiths being deposed is damning, the brothers' legal jiujitsu is appalling, and the stories of deaths are heartbreaking.
- 80New York Magazine (Vulture)David EdelsteinNew York Magazine (Vulture)David EdelsteinThe documentary could hardly be more timely or essential.
- 75RogerEbert.comRogerEbert.comEspecially for those in law enforcement, Killing Them Safely should be required viewing before taking taxpayer money to invest in their next attempt of serving and protecting their fellow man.
- 70The New York TimesNicolas RapoldThe New York TimesNicolas RapoldMr. Berardini’s packed documentary makes its case early and often, perhaps too often, but it’s more chilling than your average issue film.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterJohn DeForeThe Hollywood ReporterJohn DeForeIf Berardini isn't very generous to the company's execs, shortchanging what is likely a genuine belief that they're doing good while making a ton of money, he does spend time with officers who, for a time, embraced the Taser eagerly.
- 70Los Angeles TimesRobert AbeleLos Angeles TimesRobert AbeleWith the intensified focus on use of force in police departments, the unsettling documentary Killing Them Safely couldn't be timelier.
- This feels like a documentary about legal cases against TASER, not a documentary on the Taser.