In A24’s new dark comedy “How to Make a Killing,” the story revolves around Becket Redfellow, a man obsessed with his family’s multibillion-dollar inheritance. Glen Powell, who plays Becket, expertly captures the character’s charm and charisma, even as he plots to murder his family members to claim their wealth. The film explores the lengths to which one might go for money, posing the provocative question: Would you kill for $28 billion?
Becket’s backstory is tragic and compelling. Orphaned at a young age, he faced rejection from the wealthy Redfellow dynasty when his mother—a scandalous figure in the family—was ostracized for bearing him out of wedlock. This set the stage for a gripping narrative filled with ambition and moral ambiguity. Becket carries the burden of hope instilled in him by his mother, who told him about the vast fortune he stands to inherit, including extravagant possessions like private jets and possibly islands. It’s a tantalizing dream that fuels his future plans.
Things take a darkly humorous turn during Becket’s chance reunion with his childhood crush, Julia Steinway, played by Margaret Qualley. Their interaction is pivotal, especially when Julia jokingly suggests he should “call me when you’ve killed them all.” For Becket, however, this jest serves as motivation for an audacious plot to rid himself of the seven family members who stand between him and the riches. The dark comedy thrives on this twisted premise. His relatives range from obnoxious wannabe artists to a flashy rockstar pastor uncle and a cold grandfather, all ripe for Becket’s scheming.
While Becket is not a traditional hero, Powell’s performance makes him oddly relatable. He narrates much of the film, providing insight into his motivations and the stark reality of his psychopathy. This narration allows the audience to engage with his character, despite the morally questionable choices he makes. It reflects a deeper commentary on ambition and the human condition, asking how far someone might go to escape mediocrity and embrace wealth.
Qualley’s portrayal of Julia adds a contrasting dimension to the film. Their chemistry is palpable, and her character is full of surprises that keep the narrative lively. The movie thrives on the interplay between these two characters, both of whom are willing to navigate the moral void to achieve financial success. Qualley’s performance complements Powell’s well, adding layers to the storyline and engaging the audience more deeply in their ambitious pursuits.
Director John Patton Ford, making his mark with this slick and fast-paced film, demonstrates a keen sense of humor infused with suspense. Drawing from the 1949 British classic “Kind Hearts and Coronets,” Ford’s work balances dark themes with an entertaining approach that engages viewers from start to finish. This is Ford’s second feature after “Emily the Criminal” and showcases his ability to weave a narrative that is both thought-provoking and entertaining—a feat that few can master.
The overall experience of “How to Make a Killing” is both enjoyable and unsettling. It combines sharp wit with violent undertones, making the audience laugh while also feeling a sense of moral unease regarding Becket’s actions. The film is rated R for language and scenes of violence, underscoring the darker aspects of the comedy. With a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes, it promises a captivating experience for those willing to explore the extremes of human ambition and desire.
In summary, “How to Make a Killing” leverages the magnetic performances of Powell and Qualley, alongside Ford’s sharp direction, to create a narrative that explores the disturbing intersection of wealth and morality. It invites viewers to consider the cost of ambition while delivering an engaging and darkly comedic film experience.
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