‘Knives Out’ brings back a classic genre in a kooky way

From Director Rian Johnson and a cast too massive to list is this return to the classic whodunnit genre with “Knives Out.” Following the mysterious death of a family patriarch, a band of cops and detectives comes by to interrogate the family attempting to figure out what may have occurred during the night of the death. Little does anyone know, a very unexpected turn of events from the evening might lead to a shocking discovery.

Wittily written and expertly told, “Knives Out” makes for a highly entertaining viewing experience that will give fans of mysteries plenty to chew on. Johnson’s direction strikes the perfect balance of comedy and suspense, with neither tone ever feeling the need to compete with one another and each working effectively on their own right. Much of this comes down to the break neck pacing of its screenplay, which, while leaving just enough room for the story to breath, always keeps its audience on its feet. The whodunnit aspect of the story takes some turns that may feel jolting at first in just how much the film reveals early on, but there are enough twists and turns within the story that help keep its momentum and tension.

The film would not work nearly as well, however, if the talented ensemble had not brought their A-game. Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson, Chris Evans and many others make up this stellar cast and each is full of lively personalities that make their interactions a blast to witness.

Ana de Armas as the main heroine shines as well, with a compelling arc and way of outwitting the family as the situation escalates. However, it is undeniably Daniel Craig who steals the show with a surprisingly exaggerated performance that fits into the playful nature of this movie like a glove. The man owns every scene he is in and it is a joy to see the wheels in his head turn as he crafts this intriguing character.

The film’s presentation also helps give this world its quirky sense of personality. The production design and cinematography work off one another beautifully to give the old mansion the family stays in loads of character, utilizing numerous moments of deep focus to play with how it frames its characters. The musical score aids in this as well, carrying a lot of that classic mystery tone that such a film as this needs.

Overall, while not a game changer, “Knives Out” is a film that does its job and does it extraordinarily well. Full of colorful characters, great direction and a tense mystery plot to match, this is a film worth checking out this holiday season while family is around.