Knives Out (2019) Review

Release Date: November 27, 2019 (USA)

Director: Rian Johnson

Writer: Rian Johnson

Budget: $40 million

Knives out takes the classic whodunit genre to a new era with a star studded cast, wit, creative editing, and some truly surprising twists. 

Knives Out stars Ana de Armas (Blade Runner 2049) as Marta, the nurse and caretaker for millionaire Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer). When Thrombey passes away due to mysterious circumstances, the entire family, along with Marta, are questioned by a private detective (Daniel Craig) to find out if Thrombey’s death really was what it seems.

There aren’t many things I can really say in this review without giving away too much of the surprise. But what I can tell you is how not one minute of Knives Out ever left me bored. The editing is done with great precision, with no detail left out. This allows us to learn a lot about the characters in a short amount of time. Daniel Craig is a standout as the private detective. His southern Colonel Sanders-esque drawl isn’t cheesy or distracting, and he commands the scene every time he’s there with a demeanor of confidence and wittiness. Newcomer Ana de Armas is the film’s protagonist and does a fantastic job sharing the frame with some heavyweight veterans of the big screen. Her portrayal of a character of innocence and integrity are very well acted and contrast well with a colorful cast of misfits. 

 Ryan Johnson has crafted a great story story that follows in the footsteps of films like Clue. There are many twists and turns that are well set up, but aren’t necessarily something you could guess or see ahead of time. Because this film is told from one person’s perspective, we are told the information as she discovers it, and that might turn off some audience members. Once one truth is revealed, another mystery takes its place, and you are on the edge of your seat waiting to know what happens next. Unfortunately some characters are focused on more than others, hence why they hired big name actors for some roles, and nobodies for others. Sadly, it leaves the lesser characters in the dust and gives them “blink and you miss them” moments, but they still serve one or two story purposes. Unfortunately the big reveal doesn’t quite feel like a masterful work of genius, but more of a late night crime TV episode villain of the week. Luckily, Writer/Director Rian Johnson has a quick wit which shines in the humor, and it isn’t cringy or dopey enough to ruin the scene. It’s clear he was a great fit for this material and I hope keeps up this style in his future films.

Knives Out is a lot of fun, and feels like a classic whodunit movie with many strong performances. The film is entertaining enough to have fun with the less-than-stellar script and not take itself too seriously, all while creating a fun theatrical experience.