The third installment of Rian Johnson’s Knives Out mystery series sees Daniel Craig returning as the astute and charming detective Benoit Blanc, this time investigating the perplexing death of Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, portrayed with flair by Josh Brolin. Wicks, who governs his small parish in Chimney Rock, New York, with intensity and a fiery disposition, is a figure who demands both reverence and fear from his congregation. His sermons, reminiscent of old-time prophets, create an atmosphere of control, drawing confrontations that lead some devoted followers to leave in outrage.
A dramatic shift occurs when the diocese assigns a new colleague to him, Father Jud Duplenticy, played by Josh O’Connor, known for his role as Prince Charles in The Crown. Jud, who has a troubled past marked by brazen misconduct, is sent by Bishop Langstrom (Jeffrey Wright) to seek atonement. O’Connor skillfully navigates Jud’s evolution from confusion to spiritual clarity, establishing a compelling dynamic with Wicks.
Johnson has gathered a distinguished cast, allowing each performer the opportunity to infuse their characters with individuality. Glenn Close shines as Martha, an unwavering supporter of Wicks, while Andrew Scott effectively embodies the despair of a struggling writer, Lee Ross. Alongside them, Jeremy Renner takes on the role of Dr. Nat Sharp, whose reliability remains questionable. The performances of Kerry Washington, Cailee Spaeny, and Mila Kunis add rich textures to the gripping narrative. Daryl McCormack plays Cy, who infuses a sense of ambition and greed, cleverly heightening the drama.
As expected of a classic murder mystery, a chilling crime disrupts the otherwise routine lives of these characters. Johnson cleverly nods to the traditional “locked room” mystery trope, drawing inspiration from John Dickson Carr’s The Hollow Man, as the murder unveils a tangled web of betrayal, deception, and a staggering lost fortune amounting to $80 million. Elements of reincarnation further complicate the swirling narrative. Although the climax may feel overly extended, resulting from Johnson’s evident enjoyment of the story’s whimsical nature, this film is a delightful addition to the Knives Out legacy.
In Edward Berger’s haunting fable, Ballad of a Small Player, Colin Farrell plays Lord Doyle, a compulsive gambler trapped in a Macau hotel room as he grapples with overwhelming debts from incessant gambling. Despite his aristocratic demeanor, Doyle finds himself on the brink of disaster as he indulges in lavish caviar and champagne while evading inevitable confrontation with the law. The pivotal character of Dao Ming, played by Fala Chen, tries to assist Doyle during his downward spiral.
The narrative operates on a dual level of satire and philosophical exploration, buoyed by Farrell’s captivating portrayal. The film juxtaposes opulent and alienating settings, beautifully captured by cinematographer James Friend, which enhance Doyle’s battle against mounting pressures.
In A Private Life, Jodie Foster returns to French cinema after two decades, embodying the role of Lilian Steiner, an American psychoanalyst whose stable life is shaken by the suicide of a long-standing patient. As she grapples with the emotional fallout, she becomes convinced that the death was not a suicide but a murder, prompting her amateur sleuthing alongside her ex-husband. This intriguing blend of dark comedy and drama highlights Foster’s commanding presence and offers a richly layered viewing experience.
Lastly, Lurker presents a modern tale of ambition and jealousy centered on Matthew, played by Theodore Pellerin, who becomes entangled in the world of pop star Oliver, portrayed by Archie Madekwe. Initially, Matthew’s indifference toward Oliver’s fame positions him as a trusted confidant, but as envy rears its ugly head, the storyline transforms into a dangerous exploration of obsession and retribution. This film cleverly highlights the disparities between fame and its followers, offering sharp commentary as the plot unfolds.
The exploration of complex characters across these narratives reveals the human condition’s intricacies, encapsulating both humor and pathos while delivering powerful performances.