A classic whodunit
Updated: Dec 3, 2019
One of my favorite directors had a movie come out this week and Rian Johnson's Knives Out doesn't disappoint. A classic throwback to the fun murder mysteries from the 70s and 80s, where a large cast of famous and impressive actors are thrown together doing their best to befuddle the investigator and the audience. Most importantly, it's refreshing to see an original movie not only made but marketed for the big screen. In this day and age, it feels like movies either have to be a part of a cinematic universe or a remake of a classic (or even a not so classic). Yes, I'm looking at you, Kenneth Branagh.
So while this movie is the unique creature, a one-time feature, I'd be thrilled to see another movie with the Private Investigator Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig. Although I have a feeling that unless Rian Johnson wants to revisit the character, it isn't going to happen. Taking a quick peek into Johnson's IMDB timeline, he will be rather busy with future Star Wars projects. From beginning to end this movie is a fun ride, filled with interesting characters, and a well-written mystery with all the necessary twists and turns.
A little more about Rian Johnson. I'm sure the big Star Wars fan recognize him as the writer and director of Star Wars Episode VIII - The Last Jedi; and while that movie is a fine addition to the Star Wars family, it is not his strongest entry.
We get a little warmer with Looper. A time traveling mob movie filled with twists and turns and starring three of my favorites; Bruce WIllis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Emily Blunt.
The reason I give everything Rian Johnson does a chance is this movie, Brick. An amazing detective story turned on its head. Johnson takes the classic 40s-50s gumshoe film noir and places it in a high school environment. But this isn't High School Musical 4: Who the Hell Killed My Ex-Girlfriend. It's a smart, well put together murder mystery with all the classic feel of a Robert Mitchum or Humphrey Bogart production. Joseph Gordon-Levitt shines as the central character, putting the pieces together as he searches for the truth. This is one of my favorite movies and the reason I always will give Rian Johnson the benefit of the doubt...although I've never been disappointed by anything he's worked on. Hopefully, you haven't canceled Netflix after getting Disney+ because you can stream Brick there...