Knives Out Review: The Name’s Blanc
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Knives Out
Director: Rian Johnson
8.5
Where to Watch Knives Out?
Rian Johnson’s Knives Out is a meticulously crafted murder mystery that revitalizes the genre with wit, sharp performances, and an intricately layered plot. Led by Daniel Craig in a role vastly different from his time as James Bond, this film weaves an engaging story of family drama, deception, and greed, all set within the confines of a sprawling New England estate. The story is as visually stunning as it is narratively gripping, making Knives Out a must-watch for fans of classic whodunits.
At the heart of the mystery lies the death of Harlan Thrombey, a wealthy patriarch whose suspicious demise brings the eccentric detective Benoit Blanc to the scene. The twist? Blanc has no idea who hired him to investigate the case. What follows is a spectacular investigation as Blanc delves into the tangled web of motives within Harlan’s dysfunctional family. Each relative has a plausible reason to want Harlan dead, turning the film into a thrilling guessing game that kept me hooked until the final reveal.
Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Benoit Blanc is nothing short of spectacular. With his thick Southern drawl and methodical demeanor, Blanc feels like a modern-day Sherlock Holmes, albeit with a quirky twist. Craig brings a level of precision and gravitas to the role that makes Blanc utterly captivating. His character’s careful, almost emotionless delivery belies an unrelenting intellect, always a step ahead of everyone else. Blanc’s presence dominates the screen, grounding the film as its narrative anchor.
Adding to the film’s standout performances is Ana de Armas as Marta Cabrera, Harlan’s kind-hearted nurse. Marta’s inability to lie, a unique trait that physically manifests as involuntary nausea, is a brilliant touch. It adds layers to her character and serves as a clever tool for advancing the plot. Armas portrays Marta with a mix of vulnerability and strength, making her one of the film’s most relatable characters.
As an outsider to the Thrombey family, Marta feels out of place among these privileged, self-serving individuals, a sentiment that grows more pronounced as their true colors are revealed. Armas delivers a nuanced performance, perfectly capturing Marta’s internal conflict and discomfort.
LaKeith Stanfield, who recently impressed in The Changeling, shines here in a more understated role as Detective Lieutenant Elliott. Though his character serves primarily to support Blanc, Stanfield imbues him with subtle humor and curiosity, making him a memorable part of the ensemble. His interactions with Blanc provide a grounded contrast to the detective’s eccentricities, balancing the tone of the film.
Visually, Knives Out is a feast for the eyes. Rian Johnson’s direction ensures every frame is meticulously detailed, from the interiors of the Thrombey mansion to the picturesque countryside surrounding it. The cinematography captures the essence of a classic murder mystery, with the setting almost becoming a character in itself. The house, with its hidden passageways and eclectic decor, serves as the perfect backdrop for a story steeped in secrets and intrigue.
The film’s attention to detail is one of its greatest strengths. Every line of dialogue, every seemingly inconsequential prop, is deliberate, contributing to the overall puzzle. Johnson masterfully plants clues throughout the narrative, rewarding attentive viewers with satisfying “aha” moments as the mystery unfolds. This meticulous storytelling keeps audiences engaged, inviting them to piece together the puzzle alongside Blanc.
However, Knives Out isn’t without its flaws. The pacing in the first half of the film feels a bit sluggish, particularly during the initial interviews with the Thrombey family members. While these scenes are essential for establishing the characters and their motivations, they lack the dynamic energy that defines the latter half of the movie. A more engaging opening, perhaps showing more of the family dynamic before Harlan’s death, could have added depth to the narrative and heightened the impact of the mystery.

Thematically, Knives Out explores the corrupting influence of wealth and the masks people wear to conceal their true selves. The Thrombey family serves as a microcosm of greed and entitlement, with each member’s flaws laid bare as the story progresses. In contrast, Marta embodies kindness and integrity, highlighting the stark differences between privilege and humility. The film’s social commentary is subtle yet effective, adding another layer of complexity to the narrative.
Some of the most memorable moments come during the film’s climax. The final reveal, where Blanc unravels the intricate web of lies and deceit, is a masterclass in storytelling. Daniel Craig’s commanding delivery during this scene is riveting, as he pieces together the mystery with precision and flair. The car chase involving Marta’s tiny vehicle is another standout moment, providing a burst of humor and excitement in an otherwise tense narrative.
Overall, Knives Out is a thoroughly entertaining film that breathes new life into the murder-mystery genre. It’s not the best whodunit I’ve ever seen, but it’s undoubtedly among the most enjoyable. The combination of a stellar cast, sharp writing, and Rian Johnson’s meticulous direction makes it a standout entry in modern cinema.
For those who enjoy piecing together mysteries and savoring intricate storytelling, Knives Out is a treat. Its mix of humour, drama, and suspense ensures it remains engaging from start to finish, even if the pacing falters slightly at the beginning. With Benoit Blanc as its charming lead, this is a film that’s as fun to watch as it is to unravel. Go give this one a watch, and then let’s jump into the sequel.