By Andonia Goergen
Staff Writer
“Knives Out” pulls out all stops to create a hilariously intriguing murder mystery film that entertains viewers from start to finish.
“Knives Out” adds a modern twist to the classic whodunit film and charms viewers with its perfect blend of comedy and mystery. Despite tackling a topic that has been done countless times, “Knives Out” brings something unique to the table.
Directed and written by Rian Johnson, “Knives Out” features stars such as Jamie Lee Curtis, Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Michael Shannon and many more. Johnson also produced the film alongside producer Ram Bergman.
The film takes places after the wealthy, 85-year-old Harlan Thrombey, played by Christopher Plummer, is found dead in his house by apparent suicide. However, viewers quickly realize that foul play is involved when detective Benoit Blanc is hired to investigate Harlan’s seemingly normal family and his nurse Marta Cabrera.
Not only is this film packed with A-list actors, but each actor creates a persona that is unique and different from the other characters. Although the movie primarily follows just one family, the individuality of the characters gives viewers a good laugh and entrances them into each character’s unique storyline.
“Knives Out” seamlessly incorporates comedic moments into its dramatic plot. However, it doesn’t hesitate to bring up current political topics, such as the debate over immigration. Viewers also see politics brought up with the character Jacob Thrombey, played by Jaeden Martell, the 16-year-old grandson of Harlan who is labeled a Nazi by his family throughout the movie. “Knives Out” tackles the uncomfortable topic of politics, which is always important to discuss in today’s society.
With a large cast such as the one in “Knives Out,” the murder suspect is always changing, and viewers never know who they can trust. Although one may think they have the plot figured out, important details about the murder of Harlan are revealed up until the final moments of the film. The mysterious and suspenseful plot enthralls viewers and is what makes the movie so enjoyable.
“Knives Out” would not be complete without its captivating soundtrack that keeps viewers on the edge of their seat. Composer Nathan Johnson put together a score for the movie that left viewers feeling uneasy in the best way possible. The appropriately placed, eerie music gave “Knives Out” a shock factor and set the mood for the murder mystery.
Anyone with a knack for murder mystery and detective novels or stories with an ambiguous murderer will thoroughly enjoy this movie. “Knives Out” allows plenty of time for people to draw their own conclusions about who they think committed the crime based on clues throughout the movie, making it almost impossible to lose interest. Although the film does have a cliché plot, the creators of “Knives Out” succeeded in making the film stand out from its competitors.
With its large array of unique characters and a suspenseful plot, “Knives Out” falls into the categories of both drama and comedy, making it a versatile movie for anyone looking for an entertaining and thought provoking watch.
Released on Nov. 27, “Knives Out” is rated PG-13 and is playing in theaters nationwide.
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