Dead in a Week (Or Your Money Back)

Synopsis

In the darkly humorous British film Dead in a Week (Or Your Money Back), we follow the misadventures of William, a disillusioned young man portrayed by Aneurin Barnard, who finds himself tired of the struggles of modern life. After multiple unsuccessful attempts at suicide, he finally decides to hire a contract killer, played by Tom Wilkinson. The plot takes a hilariously unexpected turn as William and the killer form an unlikely bond, leading to a series of comedic situations. The film cleverly balances themes of existentialism with a comedic twist, exploring life, death, and the absurdities in between. As their bond develops, William learns lessons about the value of life and human connection. With its unique premise and a blend of dark comedy, 'Dead in a Week' encapsulates the nuances of wanting to escape life's pressures while ultimately valuing the experiences that life has to offer.

Cast

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  Aneurin Barnard

  William

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  Tom Wilkinson

  Leslie

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  Freya Mavor

  Ellie

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  Christopher Eccleston

  Harvey

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  Marion Bailey

  Penny

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  Velibor Topic

  Ivan

Reviews

Critics have had mixed reactions to Dead in a Week (Or Your Money Back). With an IMDb score of 6.3/10, it demonstrates that while some viewers found enjoyment in its quirky premise, others felt it fell short. The film garnered a 52% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting a split opinion among critics. One reviewer from The Independent mentioned, 'It's a tale that teeters on the edge of morbid humor but never quite crosses the threshold to profound insights.' Conversely, a critic from CineVue noted, 'Aneurin Barnard's performance as William brings a refreshing charm to the film, making it easier to engage with his darkly comedic journey.' The film's Metacritic score of 38/100 indicates generally unfavorable reviews, highlighting themes that missed the mark for several critics. A reviewer at Film School Rejects criticized it as 'an uneven attempt at blending comedy with serious themes,' suggesting that the film often struggles to maintain a consistent tone. Yet, despite the polarized opinions, some praised its originality and highlighted the chemistry between William and his contract killer, showcasing the moments of levity amid the darker subject matter.