Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (English) Review {3.5/5} & Review Rating
GLASUI: A KNIFE FROM MYSTERY is the story of the world’s famous detective who solves a mysterious case on an island. On May 13, 2020, a group of friends bored by the Covid lockdown measures suddenly find some excitement in their lives when they receive a mysterious box from their friend, the billionaire Miles Bron (Edward Norton). The box consists of a series of puzzles and once solved, the ‘Disruptors’, which are Connecticut Governor Claire Debella (Kathryn Hahn), scientist Lionel Toussaint (Leslie Odom Jr), supermodel turned fashion designer Birdie Jay (Kate Hudson) gentlemen’s right activist Duke Cody (Dave Bautista) and Miles’ ex-business partner Cassandra “Andi” Brand (Janelle Monae), find a letter in the box saying they have been invited to spend a fun weekend with Miles on his island in Greece. The friends excitedly reach the location and discover that they are not alone. Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is also present as he also receives the invitation in the puzzle box. The ‘Disruptors’ are surprised to see Andi among them as she had a huge argument with Miles a few months ago. On the island they are welcomed by Miles and he assures them that they will play an interesting murder mystery game. However, Miles tells Blanc that he never sent the puzzle box to him. Nevertheless, Miles says he’s glad he’s spending the weekend on his island. At night, the ‘Disruptors’ and Blanc gather at the ‘Glass Onion’ structure on the island to play the murder mystery game. Coincidentally, a real murder occurs and Blanc is forced to take charge and find the culprit. What happens next forms the rest of the movie.
Rian Johnson’s story is beautiful and moves the franchise forward nicely. Rian Johnson’s screenplay is very effective and entertaining. As befits a true blue murder mystery, he peppers the story with intriguing characters and mysterious circumstances, then takes the writing to another level in the final act. However, the first half is a bit dragging. The dialogues are impressive, especially Blanc’s. The sweatshop dialogue in the second half is too funny.
Rian Johnson’s directing is neat and uncomplicated. He made good use of the setting in the first part, KNIVES OUT [2019], leading many to believe it was an adaptation of a classic mystery novel. That kind of treatment is clearly lacking here because of the change of setting. Nevertheless, it makes for a nice watch. Despite Covid-19 wreaking havoc like never before, most movies around the world have chosen not to include it in their scripts or even talk about it. GLASS ONION: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY is a rare film set in the midst of the pandemic and even acknowledging it.
Although the build-up was necessary in the first half, it does drag the game. The scene in which the murder mystery game is played does not impress. Also, the build up goes on and on and it gets clichéd too, reminding people of a lot of movies in this space especially the recently released DEATH ON THE NILE [2022]. That is why one gets restless to know when the long awaited murder will take place! Fortunately, once that happens, interest rates will go up. Plus, the flashback is pretty impressive. It will make you realize how the writers cleverly left gaps in the story in the first half without the viewers realizing it. The climax is unique and will be loved.
Speaking of performances, Daniel Craig is, as expected, fantastic in the role of Benoit Blanc. The element of mystery associated with his character is limited this time around, but he makes up for it with his wit and humour. He’s not even present during a crucial part of the film, yet you don’t feel like he has limited screen time. Edward Norton is too good and his character has an uncanny resemblance to a popular billionaire. Janelle Monáe leaves a huge impression with her performance. She also looks quite stunning throughout the movie. Kathryn Hahn and Kate Hudson are reliable. Dave Bautista is impressive. Leslie Odom Jr and Jessica Henwick (Peg) are given limited leeway. Madelyn Cline (whiskey) is decent. Ethan Hawke and Hugh Grant are great at special appearances.
Nathan Johnson’s music amplifies the impact. Steve Yedlin’s cinematography is simple. Rick Heinrichs production design is very rich, and the glass onion structure is beautiful and grand. Jenny Eagan’s costumes appeal to all the characters. Action is minimal. Bob Ducsay’s adaptation is fine.
Overall, GLASS ONION: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY is a justifiable sequel and works thanks to its plot, performances, and mesmerizing climax. If it had been released in theaters, it would have become one of the biggest cinema hits of 2022.
