Some people may see this sub-genre as one that is past it or ran out of ideas. But I think with the right people and the right script, these type of films could keep going forever.
In the director's chair is Rian Johnson, a man that I think will forever be remembered as the director of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which for some people is the most divisive film in recent memory. But I think we all know that Johnson has the talent to bounce back with something that is not part of a franchise.
That is exactly what he's done, and he has given us and wonderfully exciting story and putting these type of mystery dramas back on the map of mainstream culture.
The way this story is constructed, developed and executed was like watching a complex machine working and seeing all the various sized cogs play its part.
What helped make this story move along so well was the script. It is extremely sharp with many gags that are not equally shared by all the main and supporting characters, but are executed well to make this a stronger comedy then most actual comedies.
The strength of the dialogue needed great performances to make those words shine on screen, and there are plenty of strong characters to get invested with.
The cast had quite a variety. From classic A-listers, to current stars to some of the best young actors around.
I think Daniel Craig will get the biggest plaudits from the majority of the people that check this out. You can tell he's having fun with this role as soon as you hear his stereotypical deep south American accent. He commits to it throughout and it was worth it. I think after his efforts in Logan Lucky a couple of years, Craig seems to like this particular accent.
I was pleased to not only see Ana De Armas be part of this film, but play a significant part. I've been a big fan of her since first seeing her in Blade Runner 2049, and it seems plenty more opportunities are coming her way. De Armas carries the film well and bounced off well with the seasoned veterans.
It's always strange seeing Chris Evans be in a film where he isn't Captain America. But he managed to make me see his character and not the Marvel superhero, which is enough to say how well he performed. Also like Craig, you can totally see Evans is having a lot of fun with this role.
Virtually all the other supporting cast had their moments on screen and all shone perfectly. So props especially go to Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Toni Collette and Christopher Plummer.
Despite not being a literal character, there is a large gothic house that a lot of the film takes place in. It's design as well as the way it's shot certainly gave it a personality that made you know it as well as the people inside.
While due to personal taste, I'm not quite going to totally nuts over it like some people. But this is most certainly a highly entertaining strong piece of work that can work on multiple viewings.
This is a great modern portrayal of the classic Agatha Christie style mystery thriller and can see this being enjoyed by all demographics. It's great to see that this sub-genre can still work with today's audiences.
All of that has to go down to Rian Johnson and his team, but particularly Johnson. After the fall-out of The Last Jedi and to come out with this, shows that there is a fantastically talented film-maker at work and we should applaud this latest project of his and be excited for any future films he is set to create.
Rating: 8/10
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