Glen Powell Leads A24’s ‘How to Make a Killing’ in a Darkly Comic Tale of Family Fortune
NEWARK, N.J. — In A24’s latest cinematic offering, “How to Make a Killing,” Glen Powell delivers a captivating performance as Becket Redfellow, the estranged scion of a billionaire family whose multibillion-dollar fortune sets the stage for a darkly comedic noir. Directed by John Patton Ford, the film weaves a tale of ambition, betrayal, and the lengths one might go to claim a legacy.
Becket’s story begins in modest surroundings, a stark contrast to the opulence of the Redfellow dynasty. Raised in Newark after his mother was cast out by the family patriarch for becoming pregnant out of wedlock, Becket’s early life is marked by exclusion and hardship. Yet, before her passing, his mother reveals a tantalizing secret: Becket stands to inherit a vast estate, complete with private jets and at least one private island. This revelation fuels his determination to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his.
Years later, while working as a tailor, Becket crosses paths with Julia Steinway, played by Margaret Qualley, a childhood crush who once dismissed his claims of wealth with a sardonic, “Well, call me when you’ve killed them all.” What begins as a lighthearted exchange soon takes on a more sinister tone as Becket’s resolve hardens.
The ensemble cast also includes Ed Harris, Topher Grace, Jessica Henwick, and Bill Camp, each contributing to the film’s intricate exploration of family dynamics and greed. The film’s blend of sharp wit and suspenseful storytelling has drawn attention from critics and audiences alike.
“How to Make a Killing” arrives at a time when noir influences are resurging in contemporary cinema, offering a fresh take on themes of power and inheritance. The film’s narrative invites viewers to consider the moral ambiguities that wealth can engender, a topic also explored in various cultural analyses and economic discussions.
For those interested in the intersection of wealth, family, and societal structures, the film’s portrayal resonates with broader conversations about economic disparity and legacy. The U.S. Census Bureau provides extensive data on wealth distribution that contextualizes the stark contrasts depicted in the film.
Moreover, the film’s release by A24, known for championing distinctive and provocative storytelling, underscores the studio’s commitment to pushing cinematic boundaries. Fans of the genre and newcomers alike will find “How to Make a Killing” a compelling addition to the year’s film lineup.
For more information on the film’s production and release schedule, the National Endowment for the Arts’ Film Program offers resources on independent film initiatives. Additionally, the Library of Congress maintains archives that celebrate the evolution of noir and comedic cinema.
As “How to Make a Killing” unfolds on screens nationwide, Glen Powell’s portrayal of Becket Redfellow promises to leave an indelible mark on audiences, blending humor and suspense in a story about the true cost of ambition.
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