Knives Out

Knives Out is a recent addition to the whodunnit genre that has become increasingly popular in Hollywood. Released in November 2019, this movie is directed by Rian Johnson, who is best known for directing Star Wars: The Last Jedi. With an ensemble cast featuring Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Ana de Armas, Knives Out puts a modern twist on the classic whodunnit trope.

The storyline revolves around the death of the wealthy patriarch of the Thrombey family, Harlan Thrombey, played by Christopher Plummer. All members of the Thrombey family are gathered at his isolated mansion to celebrate his 85th birthday. However, the next morning Harlan is found dead, and it is initially believed to be suicide. However, renowned detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, is hired by an anonymous source to investigate the death.

The audience is then taken on a wild ride as Blanc and local law enforcement, along with some help from Harlan’s nurse, Marta, played by Ana de Armas, try to figure out who killed Harlan Thrombey. This is where the movie truly shines, as it cleverly subverts many of the tropes that are usually associated with this genre. The movie constantly keeps the audience on their toes, delivering many twists and turns that make it impossible to look away.

One of the most refreshing aspects of Knives Out is its diverse cast of characters. Each family member has their own unique flaws and motivations that push the storyline forward. Chris Evans, who usually plays the hero, here plays the slimy and untrustworthy grandson, Ransom Drysdale. Jamie Lee Curtis, who usually plays the final girl in horror movies, plays the cunning and ambitious Linda Drysdale. Everyone’s favorite Captain America, Chris Evans, is a standout in the cast and delivers a memorable performance that is sure to surprise and delight audiences.

Another standout performance comes from Ana de Armas, who plays Harlan’s nurse, Marta. Her character is one of the only truly sympathetic characters in the movie, and the audience can’t help but root for her throughout. Her relationship with Harlan is one of the central parts of the movie, and her journey from being his humble nurse to being central to the investigation is one of the most enjoyable parts of the movie.

Daniel Craig’s performance as detective Benoit Blanc is also noteworthy. His southern accent and gentlemanly demeanor add a touch of humor to the movie, and his character is an excellent contrast to the more aggressive and competitive members of the Thrombey family. His obsession with finding the truth and his blunt honesty make him an interesting character to watch.

The movie’s cinematography is also worth mentioning. The Thrombey family mansion is stunningly shot, and the long shots that showcase its creepy interior are both beautiful and haunting. The use of color is also notable, as the costumes of each family member are carefully chosen to reflect their personalities and motivations.

In conclusion, Knives Out is a modern day take on the classic whodunnit genre. A clever and engaging story, an excellent cast, and breathtaking cinematography make it an enjoyable movie that is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The movie challenges and subverts many of the tropes that are usually associated with the genre, adding a fresh and welcome perspective. If you’re looking for a thrilling, entertaining, and unpredictable movie, Knives Out is definitely worth checking out.