Knives Out (2019), directed by Rian Johnson, is a modern take on the classic whodunit genre, blending suspense, sharp wit, and social commentary to create an exhilarating murder mystery. The story revolves around the wealthy and eccentric Thrombey family, who gather for the 85th birthday of the family patriarch, Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer), a renowned crime novelist. When Harlan is found dead under mysterious circumstances, famed detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is enlisted to investigate.

The film’s central mystery unfolds in a sprawling, Gothic-style mansion, an homage to classic detective novels and the works of Agatha Christie. Each family member is a suspect, including Harlan’s children Linda (Jamie Lee Curtis), Walt (Michael Shannon), and Joni (Toni Collette), as well as his rebellious grandson Ransom (Chris Evans). As the investigation progresses, Detective Blanc uncovers hidden tensions, grudges, and secrets within the family, revealing the dysfunction and greed that lie beneath their polished facades.

Ana de Armas shines as Marta Cabrera, Harlan’s loyal nurse and close confidante, who becomes a key figure in the investigation. Marta’s genuine kindness and moral integrity contrast with the Thrombey family’s selfish motives, making her an unexpected and relatable protagonist. Her relationship with Harlan and her position as an immigrant worker introduce deeper themes of class disparity, privilege, and the consequences of inherited wealth, adding layers to the story that make it more than a simple murder mystery.

Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Benoit Blanc, the eccentric “gentleman sleuth” with a deep Southern drawl, is one of the film’s highlights. Craig’s comedic timing and unique style bring a fresh, entertaining edge to the detective character, making Blanc a memorable addition to the ranks of fictional detectives. His investigative process, described as “peeling back the layers of a donut,” is both amusing and clever, drawing the audience into the puzzle at the heart of the story.

Rian Johnson’s script and direction keep the plot engaging and full of twists. The narrative structure cleverly plays with audience expectations, revealing surprising truths and turning the typical mystery format on its head. Johnson uses humor, sharp dialogue, and well-paced revelations to maintain suspense, leading viewers through an intricate web of clues and red herrings. The film’s cinematography and set design contribute to the atmosphere, with the Thrombey mansion acting as a character itself, filled with quirky details and dark secrets.

Knives Out isn’t just a tribute to the classic mystery genre but a modern social satire, examining entitlement, hypocrisy, and familial loyalty. The Thrombeys, each with their own selfish agendas, represent different aspects of privilege and entitlement, creating a critique that’s as timely as it is entertaining. Through Marta’s perspective, the film delivers a refreshing message on integrity and kindness, subtly addressing the issue of class without sacrificing the humor and thrill of the mystery.

Ultimately, Knives Out is a smart, stylish, and delightfully twisty film that succeeds as both a gripping murder mystery and a clever commentary on society. Its cast of colorful characters, memorable performances, and unexpected turns make it a standout film that pays homage to the genre while offering a unique and modern perspective.