It seems like Jesse Welles’ original song has struck a chord with people imagining a film about the controversial killing of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The song has garnered attention for its unique, refreshing style, which would fit perfectly into a movie about the tragic incident and the larger societal issues surrounding it.
Some commenters on TikTok have suggested that this song would be an ideal choice for the opening or closing credits of a movie about Luigi Mangione. However, the general consensus seems to favor its place at the end, where it could provide a cathartic emotional release as viewers process the climax of the story. The lyrics, which are somewhat abstract and don’t directly reference the victim or the perpetrator, allow for a more universal emotional resonance, avoiding the trap of being too literal. This could be especially impactful in a film that might focus on the bureaucratic and societal structures surrounding the event.
The song’s focus on the frustrations with the healthcare system—echoing Luigi Mangione’s manifesto—aligns with the broader themes that could drive the narrative of the film. Rather than portraying Mangione as just a “crazy individual,” the film might explore the deeper socio-economic grievances that led to this tragic event. This would not only give a voice to the victim, Thompson, but also the many Americans who feel disenfranchised by a failing system, making the incident a symbol of wider public discontent.
From a cinematic standpoint, a movie like this could be a Coen Brothers-esque exploration of the flaws within the system. The juxtaposition of Welles’ haunting song with the visuals of a Kafkaesque legal and bureaucratic process could create a powerful final montage, highlighting the disconnect between the law and the people it’s meant to serve. Much like Saltburn’s use of “Murder on the Dancefloor,” the dissonance between the song’s tone and the movie’s themes could amplify its emotional impact.
The song, in its simplicity and emotional depth, could serve as a fitting backdrop to this unfolding tragedy—a reminder that the issues at play are much bigger than any one individual. It’s easy to see why people are already calling it a perfect fit for this hypothetical movie.