Then there’s the mystery, which evolved in complexity compared to the original Knives Out. What makes this narrative so interesting is the way that Johnson starts, stops, backs up, and then starts again the story several times. He leads us down the road a bit, backs up, reveals certain truths about the characters and mystery, then does it again and again until the ultimate reveal of the killer. I like mysteries that allow you to figure out them along with the characters. Specifically, in this case, Benoit Blanc. I honestly don’t think you can definitely figure it out in the end, but there is fun in guessing along the way. HINT: This is how a film can engage its audience.
Then there’s the ending. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery is not simply over when the killer is revealed, and Blanc’s job is over. Spoilers prevent me from saying anything about it, but the finale is a satisfying good vs. evil ending while reinforcing the true nature and values that Blanc holds as an investigator. Even then, when it’s all said and done, this is a light comedy. The story, mystery, and conclusion are fun, but it’s not Agatha Christie, nor should it be.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022). Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc. Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
We also have to talk about the cast. It’s reminiscent of the Love Boat. Well-known character actors have a chance at acting in much bigger roles than what we usually see them. You’ll become bigger fans of everyone by the end. The theater nerd in me lept with joy watching Benoit Blanc playing Among Us with Natasha Lyonne, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Angela Lansbury, and Stephen Sondheim.
I thoroughly enjoyed Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. I loved the mystery. I laughed, had a good time, and can’t wait to watch it again. I hate that I even to have to say this, but the film is not for everyone. At some point, it might be worth settling one’s feelings about The Last Jedi this Christmas season.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery screened at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival and the 2022 Newport Beach Film Festival.
"…I laughed, had a good time, and can't wait to watch it again."
