Writer/Director Rian Johnson ('Star Wars: The Last Jedi') pays homage to the queen of murder mysteries Agatha Christie with his entertaining new film ‘Knives Out’.
A modern take on the traditional murder mystery genre, ‘Knives Out’ features a delightfully witty script excellently delivered by an all-star cast including Daniel Craig, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette and Chris Evans.
Christopher Plummer stars as crime novelist and family patriarch Harlan Thrombey whose untimely death is the catalyst for the film's events. First introduced as a corpse, much of Thrombey’s story unfolds through a series of flashbacks and Christopher does a brilliant job bringing this perceptive and cunning man to life (excuse the pun). Jamie Lee Curtis stars as Thrombey’s devoted daughter Linda while Toni Collette stars as his ditzy daughter-in-law Joni.
Daniel Craig is thoroughly entertaining as detective Benoit Blanc and his endearing performance more than made up for his questionable attempt at a southern accent (best described by a fellow character as a cross between Foghorn Leghorn and Colonel Sanders). Ana de Armas shines as Thrombey’s devoted caretaker Marta, a young woman whose caring heart leads her into more than a few hilarious situations; while Chris Evans delivers a memorable performance (despite his late entry into the film) as Thrombey’s unusually named grandson Ransom. Lakeith Stanfield, Katherine Langford ('13 Reasons Why'), Michael Shannon and Don Johnson round off the talented cast as Lieutenant Elliot, Thrombey’s granddaughter Meg, son Walt and son-in-law Richard.
Rian’s cleverly-crafted script ensures that each character has their own unique personality and time in the spotlight and the large cast are clearly having fun with their roles. Their onscreen chemistry leads to some hilarious (and at times awkward) hijinks and together they create a believable family dynamic which puts the fun in dysfunctional.
While Rian has added his own unique interpretation to the genre, eagle-eyed fans will be able to spot his subtle nods to the works of Agatha Christie – including the gothic mansion, the debonair detective and of course the obligatory scene in which all suspects gather to hear the investigator's sharply-delivered monologue.
Bursting with elaborate plot twists, hilariously suspicious characters and just the right amount of dark humour, ‘Knives Out’ is an entertaining whodunnit which is sure to keep audiences guessing.
