Knives Out Review

The delectable and hilarious whodunnit Knives Out from writer/director Rian Johnson revives many of the classic tropes of the genre in humorous and diverse ways that ultimately creates an atmosphere and collection of characters that are lovable, layered, and wonderfully unique. There are moments where Johnson's script reveals too much too quickly, but his top-notch awareness and the incredible depth of acting talent involved help add style and personality to even the films more cliché or foreseeable moments. Luckily, the charm and technique throughout this authentically styled murder mystery create an intelligent and wicked film.

When acclaimed writer Harlan Thrombey is found with his throat slit on the night of his 85th birthday, the family that celebrated with him that night are all key suspects. But when the sophisticated and independent detective Benoit Blanc arrives at the mansion to investigate, he begins to unveil more about the family than just a potential murder.

The electric pacing of Johnson's storytelling and visual direction requires the viewers' utmost attention and invites those to piece together both the subtle and flagrant pieces of exposition and foreshadowing that Rian embeds throughout. This constant momentum that's applicated could have easily hindered the enjoyment of Knives Out most effective elements. Fortunately, the incredible amount of experience in both the cast and crew shows immediately in the finished result, conjuring a captivating conundrum that enjoyably balances the familiar with the refreshingly bold.

However, Knives Out features moments that come across as if Johnson is not confident enough in the more subtle pieces of dialogue within his material. Instead, he sometimes decides to go with an approach that eliminates potential curiosity for the viewer, choosing to say various clues and character traits instead of showing them. While this ensures that the audience will have the knowledge needed to appreciate the film's triumphant third act, the lack of subtlety can, at times, take away from the engaging atmosphere and world-building.

Overall, the immense charm and intrigue that is generated from this vintage-inspired whodunnit significantly outshine the film's periodic moments of blatant exposition dumps and minor clichés. The sensational ensemble of actors all bring their personality to help elevate Johnson's material to greater heights, resulting in a sublime and mysterious romp that's razer-sharp from start to finish.

Bright and full of charm, Rian Johnson's murder mystery Knives Out is a hugely entertaining whodunnit that's hoisted by the marvellous production design and a phenomenal cast.

Produced By: Lionsgate
Runtime: 130 minutes
Rating: PG-13