A Modern Who Done It

Rating: 6/10 (18 March 2020)

Knives Out is a modern "who done it," starring Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc Chris Evans as Ransom Drysdale; Jamie Lee as Curtis Linda Drysdale; Michael Shannon as Richard Drysdale Ana de Armas as Marta Cabrera. A dysfunctional family comes together for an 85th birthday party for well off writer; when the party turns out to be more than expected. Linda, Ransom, and Walter battle over their father's inheritance with his nurse.
In my opinion, the theme and focus of this film touches on many different areas. The main focus is on the plot, the classic mystery detective, Benoit Blanc continues to unravel the ball of yarn. Marta continues to try and fulfill the wishes of her friend and employer. This part of the theme focuses on the complexity of human relationships. An 85-year-old man in his final days fending off the money grab; Marta, his only friend in his full house of family, everyone treated him kindly for his money. The truth of human nature can sometimes be cruel.
I think the setting and the music and visual elements used in the film enhance the story itself. The High-key and Low-key lighting in the mansion establishes the mood for the movie early on. From the first scene, the music and large estate give you the feeling you're in the film or the board game Clue. Ironically, it is even said in the movie by one of the detectives, "The guy practically lives in a Clue Board". The suspenseful score and the several internal conflicts between the family; no one knows what will happen next! This is typical of films focused on the plot; however, the first twist comes early on when Harlan turns out to be aware his death is imminent. The dramatic irony is pretty heavy in this film, from the beginning to the end.
The story flow of the movie was unique and exciting. The editing was an essential part of this film. The way the story is told from several different perspectives was the best part of the film, in my opinion. Seeing how each character remembered the events of the evening piece by piece (no matter how biased or untruthful) helped put Detective Blanc on the path to finding the guilty party. The theme of the film was emphasized by the music, lighting, and setting techniques used in the film. The story was told from several points of view and was impressive.