I’ve always loved a good mystery film, whether it’s the 1985 classic Clue or something as recent as 2017’s Murder on the Orient Express. If you’re like me then prepare to put your detective skills to the test when you watch Knives Out.
Rian Johnson (no relation to Don) directs a star-studded cast that includes Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson, Toni Collette, Lakeith Stanfield, Katherine Langford, Jaeden Martell, and Christopher Plummer.
Christopher Plummer stars as wealthy novelist Harlan Thrombey, the patriarch of the Thrombey family, who is found dead on the night of his 85th birthday. Daniel Craig plays private eye Benoit Blanc, who is hired by someone unknown to him to investigate Harlan’s death. Although initially ruled as a suicide, all of the family members, including Harlan’s nurse and caretaker Marta (Ana de Armas) are questioned as suspects.
Harlan has built a publishing empire and with millions in assets and property, each of the siblings and their children all want a piece of the pie.
As with any murder mystery, you have to pay close attention to all the details. Everything is a clue or a hint at who might be responsible for killing Harlan. This isn’t the movie you want to take multiple trips to the bathroom or be distracted by how hot your date is.
Rian also wrote and produced the film and there are many clever Easter eggs as well as nods to other notable mystery films and characters. I’ll admit that I couldn’t pinpoint who was guilty, the climax of the film is very clever in how it unfolds.
Don Johnson, who plays Richard Drysdale (husband of Jamie Lee Curtis’ character Linda), talked about the unusual way they shot this film.
Knives Out is in theaters November 27th, and if you go see it….please, DO NOT spoil the ending! (Full interview with Don Johnson below!)
