The question isn't *if* money can corrupt, but *how far* someone will go for unimaginable wealth. For Becket Redfellow, the answer spirals into a chillingly calculated plot in "How to Make a Killing." It’s a story that asks a disturbing question: would you kill for $28 billion?
Becket, portrayed by Glen Powell, exists in the shadows of the Redfellow dynasty. Abandoned as a child after his mother was ostracized for an out-of-wedlock pregnancy, he grew up with a single, potent promise – a claim to the family fortune. This inheritance isn’t just money; it’s an empire encompassing estates, private jets, and even a secluded island.
Years later, working a humble job as a tailor, Becket’s past resurfaces with the reappearance of Julia Steinway (Margaret Qualley), a former crush. He’d once confided in her about his lineage, a revelation she greets with a darkly humorous challenge: “Well, call me when you’ve killed them all.”
What begins as a flippant remark ignites something within Becket. He doesn’t dismiss it as a joke, but instead, sees it as a twisted inspiration. A plan begins to form, a meticulous strategy to eliminate the seven relatives standing between him and everything he believes is rightfully his.
The Redfellow family is a collection of eccentric and deeply flawed individuals. Becket’s hit list includes a pretentious artist brother, a charismatic but unsettling megachurch pastor uncle, and a ruthlessly cold grandfather, each brought to life with sharp, biting performances.
Becket isn’t presented as a hero, and the film doesn’t attempt to soften his edges. Powell’s performance is key; he imbues Becket with a captivating charm and charisma, making it surprisingly easy to find yourself rooting for a man plotting multiple murders. His narration pulls you into the dark logic of his world.
Julia, equally ambitious and morally flexible, becomes Becket’s unlikely accomplice. She’s a force of her own, driven by a similar hunger for financial success, and Margaret Qualley delivers a performance brimming with unpredictable energy and hidden depths.
The film, a slick and darkly comedic noir, draws inspiration from the classic British film "Kind Hearts and Coronets," but with a distinctly modern edge. Director John Patton Ford maintains a relentless pace, expertly balancing suspense and humor.
"How to Make a Killing" is a surprisingly entertaining exploration of greed and ambition. It’s a film that thrives on the chemistry between its leads and the director’s willingness to embrace a twisted, unsettling sensibility. It’s a harmless thrill, fueled by compelling performances and a darkly clever script.
The film carries an R rating for its strong language and depictions of violence. With a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes, it’s currently playing in theaters.
