Rian Johnson's mastery in mystery: A must-watch list
What's the story
Rian Johnson has reinvigorated the mystery genre, blending complex plots with deep character development.
His projects, including Knives Out, its sequel Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, and Poker Face, showcase his ability to create captivating mysteries.
These works pay homage to classic detective stories while incorporating modern sensibilities, establishing Johnson as a standout director in contemporary cinema.
Movie 1
'Knives Out' (2019)
Knives Out showcases Rian Johnson's return to the whodunit genre, introducing Detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig.
He investigates a wealthy novelist's death, with a cast including Chris Evans and Jamie Lee Curtis.
The film earned an 88% on Rotten Tomatoes and grossed over $311 million worldwide, marking it as both a critical and commercial hit.
Movie 2
'Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery' (2022)
In this sequel, Detective Benoit Blanc tackles a complex mystery on a tech mogul's private island.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery features Edward Norton and Janelle Monae. It premiered on Netflix in December 2022, captivating audiences with its intricate plot and visuals.
Critics praised it for upholding the high standards of its predecessor, earning a 93% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Series 1
'Poker Face' (2023)
Poker Face marks Johnson's foray into TV, with Natasha Lyonne playing Charlie Cale on Peacock.
Each episode sees Charlie in new settings, solving mysteries with her ability to detect lies.
It's lauded for its episodic nature, akin to classic detective series, and for maintaining a consistent character arc for Charlie.
Critics and viewers praise its storytelling and Lyonne's performance.
Style
Key elements of Rian Johnson's mystery style
Johnson's mysteries are known for their complexity and engaging twists, keeping viewers intrigued until the very end.
He develops unique, in-depth characters that enrich the narrative.
His work nods to Agatha Christie's classics but with a modern twist, appealing to contemporary audiences.
His distinct visual style also plays a crucial role in establishing the mystery's atmosphere.
Success
Critical and commercial success
Rian Johnson's recent endeavors into the mystery genre have garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success.
Both Knives Out films have achieved high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes alongside substantial box office earnings, demonstrating their widespread appeal.
Similarly, Poker Face has attracted positive reviews from critics and built up a dedicated viewer base thanks to its clever writing and strong character portrayal by Natasha Lyonne.