Knives Out (2019)
Score: 7 / 10
Category: Movie
Platform: Netflix
One-line verdict
A carefully constructed whodunit that rewards attention, with layered misdirection and smart plotting, even if one performance choice remains distracting.
Second viewing, clearer appreciation
This was my second time watching Knives Out. The first time, I didn’t give it the attention it deserved. Watching it again made a big difference.
What stood out immediately is how carefully the premise is set up. You can tell the writers took time to think through potential plot holes and deliberately closed them off. For a mystery like this, that matters.
The core setup is straightforward: a wealthy old man is murdered after changing his will, and a private detective is brought in to untangle what really happened. From there, the movie leans heavily into misdirection.
What works
The plot twists are layered and intentional. Each reveal isn’t quite what it seems, and even knowing the final outcome on a second viewing, I was still impressed by how the movie unfolds.
The execution is confident. Flashbacks are used effectively to reframe events rather than simply restating them, which keeps the pacing engaging instead of repetitive.
Casting is also a strong point. Ana de Armas and Daniel Craig anchor the story well, and Chris Evans’ appearance adds to the fun without overwhelming the film. The ensemble works because no single character feels wasted.
The section below discusses performance choices.
What didn’t land for me
The one thing I never fully got comfortable with is Daniel Craig’s accent. I honestly couldn’t tell what it was supposed to be. It didn’t ruin the movie, but it remained distracting enough that I noticed it every time he spoke.
Final thoughts
This is a fun, well-executed mystery that clearly respects its own internal logic. It’s the kind of movie that benefits from a second watch, not because of spectacle, but because of how well the pieces are arranged.
I’m settling on a 7 / 10 — solid, enjoyable, and cleverly constructed, even if not something that completely redefines the genre for me.
