#98: Glass Onion, a film by Rian Johnson

Don't miss it!

Writer/director Rian Johnson has done it again.

The next installment in what I hope will become a Knives Out whodunnit franchise was a blast.

This is no longer playing in theaters, so I beg you to avoid spoilers until you can watch on Netflix on December 23rd.¹

Here is what I loved:

Perfect Casting

Edward Norton plays eccentric billionaire Miles Bron who throws an elaborate party every year for his four closest friends, known as “The Disruptors.” This year, the friends convene on his private island in Greece to play a murder mystery game.

The so-called Disruptors are Leslie Odom Jr., Dave Bautista, Kate Hudson, and Kathryn Hahn. Along for the ride are Janelle Monae, Jessica Henwick, and Madelyn Cline. Daniel Craig joins the gang and once again is fantastic as detective Benoit Blanc.

There isn’t an actor in the bunch that I dislike. Kate Hudson is having the time of her life as a ditzy influencer. Bautista fully embraces the role of a men’s-rights activist YouTuber. Odom Jr. and Hahn are underutilized, but I’m still glad they’re here. In true Clue fashion, the chemistry amongst the characters as the situation goes sideways is fun to watch.

The Location

As in the original Knives Out, the location is a character that plays a role in the drama. The island mansion has elaborate gardens, pools, and lots of stairs where the action can unfold. The setting also serves as a commentary on the bizarre aesthetic of rich men who have no taste. I’m sure multiple viewings will reveal more gems of the set design.

The Humor & Writing

This movie is witty. I can picture Johnson cackling to himself as he wrote the screenplay. There are Clue references, celebrity product name drops, and situations that mashup comedy and tension. It’s clever and a good time at the movies.

What didn’t work as well?

I hate to say it, but the mystery might be the one thing that is inferior to the original. Plenty of surprises and twists, but on paper I don’t find it as interesting. If you’ve seen it, let me know if you disagree.

I hope you get a chance to watch Glass Onion with a group of loved ones and that you enjoy it as much as I did. Movies like this make moviemaking look so much fun!

Thanks for reading,

Kyle

1. A 7-day theatrical run. Now that’s a crime.