How To Make A Killing Review: A Twisty A24 Crime Comedy
The latest A24 release, How To Make A Killing, blends dark humor with high‑stakes crime drama, delivering a fresh take on the genre. Directed by John Patton Ford and headlined by Glen Powell and Margaret Qualley, the film explores a ruthless heir’s quest to claim a family fortune by eliminating those standing in his way. Below, we break down the film’s narrative, performances, visual style, and why it matters for fans of off‑beat thrillers.
Plot Overview
Glen Powell plays the disowned heir of an obscenely wealthy family. After being cast out at birth, his blue‑collar upbringing fuels a relentless drive to seize the inheritance. The only obstacle: the successors positioned ahead of him in the family line. With a blend of cunning, violence, and unexpected alliances, Powell’s character embarks on a murderous spree that spirals into a chaotic, yet oddly comedic, chain of events.
The screenplay, penned by Patton Ford, balances tension with sardonic wit. Each murder is choreographed to feel both shocking and absurd, reinforcing the film’s central theme: the lengths one will go to secure power when legacy and desperation collide.
Key Performances
Glen Powell delivers his most daring role to date. Known for his charismatic charm in films like Top Gun: Maverick, Powell channels a darker, more volatile energy here. His portrayal walks a fine line between sympathy and menace, making the audience question whether his motives are justifiable.
Margaret Qualley, as the femme fatale who both aids and thwarts Powell’s plans, brings a magnetic presence to the screen. Her performance is layered—combining seductive confidence with a palpable sense of danger. The chemistry between Powell and Qualley fuels the film’s most memorable moments.
Supporting actors, including a cameo by Ragesh (script, editing, and presentation), add depth to the narrative, ensuring that each secondary character feels purposeful rather than ornamental.
Visual Style and Direction
John Patton Ford’s direction is unmistakably A24—stylish, atmospheric, and unapologetically bold. The cinematography employs muted color palettes punctuated by bursts of neon, echoing the film’s tonal shifts from gritty realism to surreal comedy.
Key visual motifs—such as recurring shots of a cracked family portrait and the recurring sound of a ticking clock—reinforce the themes of legacy and time pressure. The film’s editing, overseen by Ragesh, maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that each plot twist lands with maximum impact.
Why It Stands Out
- Genre Fusion: The film seamlessly merges crime thriller conventions with dark comedy, appealing to a broad audience.
- Strong Cast: Powell and Qualley’s performances elevate the script, providing both gravitas and levity.
- A24 Signature: The production’s distinctive visual flair and daring storytelling align perfectly with the studio’s reputation for innovative cinema.
