Sunday, February 16, 2025

Knives Out (2019)

 Knives Out' Review: Murder Most Clever - The New York Times


Directed by Rian Johnson, Knives Out reinvents the classic whodunit as detective Benoit Blanc investigates the mysterious death of a wealthy patriarch. The film updates the genre with modern themes and sharp social commentary.

Genre & Techniques

Whodunit Mystery: Whodunits rely on deception, interrogations, and intricate plotting to keep audiences guessing. Knives Out modernizes this with nonlinear storytelling and character-driven humor.

Techniques: Shifting perspectives challenge the audience’s perception of the truth; production design subtly reflects character personalities; and precise editing controls the flow of revelations.

Discussion Questions

  • Film Technique: How does the film use costume and set design to visually distinguish characters and hint at their personalities or motives?
  • Genre: Knives Out flips the typical whodunit structure by revealing a key event early on. How does this affect audience engagement compared to a traditional mystery?
  • Cultural Context: The film critiques class privilege and entitlement. How do these themes shape the motivations and conflicts of the characters?
  • Personal Response: Did you like the film? Why or why not?

No comments:

Post a Comment