Glen Powell's Lead Man Era Begins with Mixed Results in 'How To Make A Killing'
Glen Powell steps into his leading man era with the black comedy How To Make A Killing, a film that riffs on the lengths a motivated individual might go to climb the line of succession. This premise feels particularly relevant in light of recent events involving disgraced royal figures, yet the movie unfortunately fails to fully leverage its serendipitous timing.
A Promising Premise with Unfulfilled Potential
Directed and written by John Patton Ford, known for the well-regarded 2022 crime thriller Emily The Criminal, this project allowed Ford to bring a script that had been circulating Hollywood since 2014 to life. It caught the attention of Glen Powell just as he was solidifying his status as a Hollywood leading man, following breakout roles in Top Gun: Maverick and other films like Anyone But You and Hit Man.
Powell, eager to avoid typecasting as the good guy, found appeal in a character whose moral ambiguity is established from the outset. The film opens with his character, Becket Redfellow, on death row, recounting his story to a priest, immediately casting doubt on his ethical standing.
Plot Overview and Character Dynamics
Redfellow is in line to inherit a vast fortune, but he is not next in succession. Estranged from his wealthy family due to his birth leading to his mother's excommunication by the ruthless patriarch Whitelaw, played by the incomparable Ed Harris, Becket grew up in poverty. His desire to claim his birthright intensifies after reconnecting with childhood friend Julia, portrayed by Margaret Qualley.
Realizing that eliminating relatives is his only path forward, Becket is somewhat relieved to find that most of them are obnoxious individuals, making his actions feel almost guilt-free. This setup promises dark humor and intrigue, especially with Powell's charismatic presence at the helm.
Shortcomings and Comparisons
Despite its promising elements, Ford's script struggles to live up to the premise. More critically, it fails to measure up to its loose inspiration, the 1949 British black comedy Kind Hearts And Coronets, a bona fide classic featuring Sir Alec Guinness in multiple roles. In comparison, How To Make A Killing offers only a decent cinematic experience, serving as a passable way to spend 100 minutes with popcorn in hand.
The film's inability to capitalize on its timely theme and deliver on its comedic potential leaves it feeling underwhelming, marking a missed opportunity in Powell's ascent as a leading man.
