In a time when remakes and safe storytelling dominate, films that pull inspiration from older, lesser-known material usually stand out. How to Make a Killing of Glen Powell tries to do exactly that. It borrows its core idea from the classic Kind Hearts and Coronets and reshapes it into a modern black comedy thriller.
On paper, everything looks promising. Directed by John Patton Ford, who previously impressed with Emily the Criminal, the film brings in a strong cast led by Glen Powell. Add names like Margaret Qualley, Topher Grace, Ed Harris, and Bill Camp, and expectations naturally rise.
However, despite all the right ingredients, the film struggles to deliver a fully satisfying experience.
Plot Overview
The story begins with Becket Redfellow, played by Glen Powell, sitting in prison just hours before his execution. He narrates his life story as a final confession, setting up a framing device that runs throughout the film.
Becket comes from a complicated background. Although he belongs to a wealthy family, he grows up away from that privilege. His mother was cast out after a teenage pregnancy, and his powerful grandfather refuses to acknowledge him. As a result, Becket lives an ordinary, somewhat underwhelming life.
Things shift when he reconnects with Julia, played by Margaret Qualley. That moment triggers his desire to claim the wealth and status he believes should have been his all along.
Soon, he discovers he is eighth in line to inherit the family fortune. From there, the plan becomes simple but dark — eliminate everyone standing in his way.
The Concept vs Execution
The central idea has strong potential. A dark comedy about ambition, class, and morality could have explored deeper themes. It even hints at social commentary about wealth and entitlement.
However, the execution feels uneven.
The film moves quickly from Becket being an average, slightly lost man to someone capable of murder without hesitation. That shift lacks proper buildup. Because of that, his actions feel less shocking and more confusing.
The humor also struggles to land. While the film aims for absurd and dark comedy, many scenes feel flat instead of sharp. Compared to films like Knives Out or The Menu, the writing here lacks bite and consistency.
Performance Breakdown
Glen Powell as Becket
Glen Powell carries the film, but his performance feels limited by the script. His character never fully develops, which makes it hard to understand his motivations.
Unlike his work in Hit Man, where he balanced charm and depth, here he feels surface-level. The role demands complexity, yet the writing does not give him enough space to explore it.
Supporting Cast
Margaret Qualley brings presence whenever she appears. Her character feels like a classic femme fatale, but the film does not use her enough. She often feels disconnected from the main plot.
Topher Grace adds some humor as an exaggerated and flawed character. While a few moments work, most feel forced.
Ed Harris and Bill Camp provide stronger performances. Bill Camp, in particular, adds emotional depth, especially as a character who complicates Becket’s choices.
Jessica Henwick also stands out in a smaller role, offering a grounded and more human connection in the story.
Tone and Style
The film tries to balance dark humor with thriller elements, but it never fully commits to either. At times, it feels like a satire. At other moments, it aims for tension. Because of that, the tone feels inconsistent.
Visually, the film does its job without standing out. Although set in New York, parts of it feel slightly off due to filming locations, which affects immersion.
The pacing also becomes an issue. Even as the story moves forward with multiple events, it somehow feels slow and disengaging.
What Works and What Doesn’t
What Works
- Strong concept inspired by classic storytelling
- Solid supporting performances, especially Bill Camp
- A few moments of dark humor and satire
What Doesn’t
- Weak character development
- Inconsistent tone
- Missed emotional depth
- Humor that often falls flat
Final Thoughts
How to Make a Killing on lookmovies is a film that feels more interesting in theory than in execution. It had the potential to become a sharp and memorable dark comedy, but it never fully commits to its strengths.
Despite a talented cast and a promising premise, the film lacks the depth and energy needed to leave a lasting impact. It is not completely unwatchable, but it also does not offer much beyond its basic idea.
In the end, it lands somewhere in the middle — watchable, but forgettable. If you are curious about the concept or the cast, it might be worth a one-time watch. Just do not expect something as sharp or engaging as it initially seems.