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Knives Out, a mystery thriller directed by Rian Johnson, was released on November 27, 2019. The film is a modern take on the classic whodunit genre, blending suspense, humor, and sharp social commentary. With a star-studded cast and an engaging storyline, Knives Out quickly became a favorite among audiences and critics alike. This review explores the movie’s plot, strengths, and weaknesses while highlighting its appeal to different audiences.
Plot Summary
The story begins with the mysterious death of Harlan Thrombey, a wealthy crime novelist, following his 85th birthday party. The eccentric Thrombey family gathers at his mansion, only to find themselves suspects in a murder investigation led by the charismatic detective Benoit Blanc. As Blanc digs deeper, secrets unravel, and motives come to light, creating a tangled web of deception. The film keeps viewers guessing until the very end with its clever twists and turns.
What’s Good?
One of the strongest aspects of Knives Out is its ensemble cast. Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Benoit Blanc is both quirky and captivating, with his Southern drawl adding a unique charm. Ana de Armas delivers a standout performance as Marta Cabrera, Harlan’s kind-hearted nurse, while veterans like Jamie Lee Curtis, Chris Evans, and Christopher Plummer bring depth and charisma to their roles.
Rian Johnson’s direction is impeccable, seamlessly blending humor with tension. The screenplay is sharp and witty, filled with clever dialogue and unexpected twists. Johnson’s ability to subvert traditional mystery tropes keeps the story fresh and engaging.
The cinematography is another highlight, with the Thrombey mansion serving as a character in its own right. The intricate set design, combined with striking visuals, creates an atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding drama. Nathan Johnson’s musical score complements the narrative perfectly, heightening suspense and enhancing emotional moments.
Additionally, the film’s commentary on class dynamics and privilege adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a traditional murder mystery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Stellar performances by the cast, particularly Daniel Craig and Ana de Armas.
- A well-crafted screenplay with clever twists and engaging dialogue.
- Exceptional production design and cinematography.
- Thought-provoking themes that resonate beyond the mystery.
Weaknesses:
- Some characters, despite being well-acted, feel underdeveloped due to the large ensemble.
- The pacing slows slightly in the middle, which might test the patience of some viewers.
Target Audience
Knives Out is perfect for fans of mystery and suspense. If you enjoy films that keep you guessing with clever twists, this movie is for you. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate sharp humor and social commentary. Families with older children, casual moviegoers, and lovers of classic whodunits will all find something to enjoy.
Box Office Details
The total budget of Knives Out was approximately INR 300 crore. The film performed exceptionally well at the box office, grossing over INR 2,200 crore worldwide.
Estimated Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas):
- Day 1: INR 35 crore
- Day 2: INR 40 crore
- Day 3: INR 50 crore
- Day 4: INR 45 crore
- Day 5: INR 30 crore
The film’s success can be attributed to its strong word-of-mouth promotion, critical acclaim, and appeal to a wide audience. It remained a box office favorite for weeks, earning accolades and solidifying its status as a modern classic.
Recommendation
Knives Out is a masterfully crafted mystery that combines sharp wit, engaging performances, and stunning visuals. It’s a must-watch for fans of the genre and anyone looking for an entertaining and thought-provoking film. Highly recommended for a thrilling movie night!
Genres:
Comedy, Crime, Mystery
Rating:
7.8/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Daniel Craig | Benoit Blanc |
| Chris Evans | Ransom Drysdale |
| Ana de Armas | Marta Cabrera |
| Jamie Lee Curtis | Linda Drysdale |
| Michael Shannon | Walt Thrombey |
| Don Johnson | Richard Drysdale |
| Toni Collette | Joni Thrombey |
| LaKeith Stanfield | Lieutenant Elliott |
| Christopher Plummer | Harlan Thrombey |
| Katherine Langford | Meg Thrombey |
| Jaeden Martell | Jacob Thrombey |
| Riki Lindhome | Donna Thrombrey |
| Edi Patterson | Fran |
| Frank Oz | Alan Stevens |
| K Callan | Greatnana Wanetta |
| Noah Segan | Trooper Wagner |
| M. Emmet Walsh | Mr. Proofroc |
| Marlene Forte | Marta’s Mom |
| Raúl Castillo | Cop |
| Shyrley Rodriguez | Alicia |
| Kerry Frances | Sally |
| Gary Tanguay | Local News Anchor |
| Octavia Chavez-Richmond | Other Woman |
| Joseph Gordon-Levitt | Detective Hardrock (voice) |
| Paul Bellefeuille | Friend of Harlan Thrombey (uncredited) |
| Ben Bunnag | Worker (uncredited) |
| Michael Burnell | Firefighter (uncredited) |
| Frankie Francois | Officer Perry interviewing Marta (uncredited) |
| Marcela Jaramillo | Pedestrian (uncredited) |
| Gabrielle Lorthe | Waitress (uncredited) |
| Rob Lévesque | Morgue Fire Spectator (uncredited) |
| Paul Tawczynski | Officer Taillie (uncredited) |
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