Published on March 26, 2026
After being cast out from his billionaire family for the sin of being born from a working-class father, average Joe Beckett Redfellow (Glen Powell) finds himself in a moral quandary that can only be solved with violence. In “How to Make a Killing,” writer-director John Patton Ford offers a sharp, stylized exploration of nihilism and ambition, though the film struggles to find a cohesive narrative amid its lofty themes.
Beckett’s journey begins with his disenchantment and sense of entitlement after being denied the wealth and privilege that should have been his birthright. Determined to reclaim his inheritance, he devises a plot to exterminate his entire family. What follows is a convoluted mix of dark comedy and existential dread that paints a picture of a man driven to madness and familial rejection.
Ford, known for his previous work starring Aubrey Plaza, brings a slick aesthetic to this film, punctuating it with moments of sharp wit and biting commentary. The dialogue brims with sarcasm and social critique, reflecting Beckett’s internal struggle and evolution as he becomes increasingly detached from morality. However, this sense of style often overshadows substance, leaving viewers questioning whether the film’s messages are as profound as they aspire to be.
As the narrative unfolds, the pacing varies significantly, with scenes that seem deliberately drawn out and others that whiz development. While Ford’s direction keeps the film visually engaging, the character arcs occasionally falter, resulting in a lack of emotional investment in Beckett’s plight. Although Powell delivers a commendable performance filled with charisma, the script sometimes feels like it undermines his character’s deeper conflicts.
In its examination of wealth, privilege, and the dark corners of the human psyche, “How to Make a Killing” ultimately leaves viewers with more questions than answers. It presents a case for the dangers of unchecked ambition but fails to tie its themes together in a satisfying manner. While slick and stylish, the film teeters between commentary and chaos, never quite finding the balance necessary to resonate on a deeper level.
In conclusion, John Patton Ford’s latest work showcases a commendable ambition and aesthetic flair but struggles to deliver a fully fleshed-out narrative. Viewers seeking a straightforward thriller may find themselves puzzled and turns, while those in tune with its darker, more nihilistic themes might appreciate the underlying commentary, albeit with a sense of frustration at its failure to gel completely.
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