Well, after 4 years, I am finally going to review Knives Out. I did watch it when it came out, but I usually only review strictly horror movies. However, this movie is mystery/suspense, so close enough! And it’s a fun one to talk about. And there’s a sequel, which I’ll also review.
You already know the movie. If not, definitely watch it. But is it really worth a watch? Let’s find out! (Yes.)
Are You Not entertained?
This movie was critically acclaimed right away for its clever script and pure entertainment value. It takes a classic trope and creates a pleasant murder mystery with an all-star cast. It’s not quite Clue, but it does have some goofy vibes. And it’s not quite an action movie, but there’s plenty of eye-candy on screen.
The setting and the cast are charming. A huge, sprawling mansion. An enigmatic detective (Daniel Craig) and breakout performance by Ana de Armas carry the film, but there are so many recognizable actors and actresses. I really think it’s the actors, more than the script, carrying this movie. Either way, it’s delightfully entertaining and immensely rewatchable.
Very 2019
Rewatching this movie in 2023, it’s undeniable this movie was made for exactly the moment it released. Ana de Armas’ backstory, the alt-right kid who is always on his phone, and the whole plot around wealth… not to mention a few name-drops. It’s so very 2019. Which is great, but 4 years later the satire isn’t quite as biting.
When it came out, the movie seemed impossibly good. Now, it’s aged a bit. The ensemble cast is so large that some of them get the short end of the stick. The immigrant backstory is still very powerful and the ending is satisfying. However, when you consider how very little has changed since 2019… it can also seem like a bleak look into an alternate reality where wealthy people are on a level field with everyone else and a country-accent detective will solve our problems of wealth inequality.
Then again, it’s just a movie. And apart from a few out-of-place plot lines, it holds up.
Overall
The whole “puke when you lie” thing irks me still, but I love Ana de Armas and Daniel Craig, so I’ll let it slide. Still, it’s not a perfect movie. But it is very good, and you can probably watch it three times without getting tired of it.
Also! The twists still hold up. It’s really impressive. I actually forgot about the 2nd twist.
So, I’ll give it a…
David Kummer 