“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” is a mystery comedy film, serving as a sequel to “Knives Out” (2019), also directed by Rian Johnson. Daniel Craig reprises his role as detective Benoit Blanc, and this time, he is joined by a star-studded cast including Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., Jessica Henwick, Madelyn Cline, Kate Hudson, and Dave Bautista. With a budget of USD 40 million, Netflix released the film yesterday. Now, the question is: does the sequel live up to the entertainment value of the first film?
Set against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic, billionaire Miles Bron (Norton) invites his closest friends to vacation on his tiny Greek island. The guests include Governor Claire (Hahn), scientist Lionel (Odom), former supermodel Birdie Jay (Hudson) and her assistant Peg (Henwick), Duke (Bautista) and his girlfriend, Whiskey (Clyne). However, the gathering takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of two uninvited guests: Andi (Monáe) and the detective. The reunion spirals out of control when a seemingly harmless game leads to the death of one of the guests.
The initial plot bears resemblance to “The Death of the Nile,” released earlier this year. Nevertheless, “Glass Onion” appears to offer more intrigue and mystery. The minimal character exposition at the beginning leaves the audience in the dark about the characters, their motives, and relationships, all of which are gradually unveiled as the plot unfolds. Spectators are kept in suspense, unable to predict the story’s direction. There’s no need to search for tiny clues; the script is a clever ruse by the filmmaker. While the mystery is not the main focus, the ridiculous characters and comedic elements take center stage, skillfully portrayed by the entire cast. The plot takes a dramatic turn around the two-thirds mark, completely altering the story’s trajectory. This unexpected twist catches everyone off guard.
Despite its intricate plot complexity, “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” leans more towards entertainment and comedy than a gripping mystery. This time, the plot avoids the trappings of a typical detective story, distinguishing itself from both the Hercule Poirot films and even “Knives Out.” “Glass Onion” feels less serious, akin to a circus with the cast delivering performances in a charming and classy style. Personally, I still prefer “Knives Out,” but it cannot be denied that “Glass Onion” stands as a highly entertaining comedy film, capable of defying our expectations.
