Johnson has put together a star-studded cast. Even Millennials will enjoy seeing some of their favorite film icons in different roles. James Bond (Daniel Craig) with a southern accent. Captain America (Chris Evans) as an asshole.
And frisky performances by Jamie Lee Curtis, Don Johnson, Michael Shannon, Toni Collette, and Christopher Plummer (who now is the patriarch in every movie made this century).
The one actor I didn’t really know was Ana de Armas, who pretty much was the lead. But she held her own beautifully, shining bright against all that star wattage.
The real standout for me though was Rian Johnson. Known (at least by me) for writing superhero popcorn movies, the screenplay for KNIVES OUT was beautifully crafted. Everything was set up and paid off. The story was complicated and convoluted, but not to where you’re lost. Billy Wilder lives!
As for the plot, he keeps you guessing and keeps you delightfully off-balanced. I just imagine Johnson plotting this with a thousand multi-colored index cards constantly moving them around the board. Well, he found the right order.
There’s also some good laughs, which all come from character. And the tone is consistent. A lot of times this type of movie veers off into silly or overly dramatic. KNIVES OUT walks that fine line, keeping the suspense up, the humor organic, and eccentric characters flashy but grounded.
It was sort of like a superhero movie for grown-ups – an enjoyable diversion, a fun ride. And it wasn’t a sequel! Or prequel!
KNIVES OUT is playing everywhere. Go see it before it’s bumped from your favorite theatre by DESPICABLE ME 9.
from By Ken Levine
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