You Kill Me (2007)

You Kill Me is a sharp and darkly funny 2007 American crime comedy that follows Frank Falenczyk, a hitman whose drinking problem lands him in more trouble than his targets. Directed by John Dahl, the film stars Ben Kingsley as Frank, a Polish-American assassin from Buffalo whose alcoholism botches a crucial job, forcing his mob family to send him to San Francisco to sober up. There, he meets Laurel (Téa Leoni), a quick-witted woman whose acerbic charm becomes an unexpected lifeline as he navigates AA meetings and a new perspective on his deadly trade. The story takes a turn when Frank, now on the mend, returns to Buffalo to face the fallout of his past—old scores, rival gangs, and a family that’s less than thrilled with his sobriety. Laurel’s no-nonsense presence proves to be more than just moral support; she’s a wildcard who might just help him pull off his comeback. With a stellar supporting cast including Luke Wilson and Bill Pullman, the film blends deadpan humor with moments of genuine tenderness, all underscored by the absurdity of a killer finding redemption in a 12-step program. Released in 2007, You Kill Me stands out for its offbeat take on the hitman genre, trading high-octane thrills for a quirky, character-driven tale of recovery and revenge. Its West Coast-to-Buffalo journey offers a fresh spin on the mob narrative, wrapped in a dry wit that keeps the laughs coming even as the bullets fly. For fans of dark comedies with heart, this underrated gem delivers a killer mix of laughs and soul.