The new crime thriller How to Make a Killing, starring Glen Powell and Margaret Qualley, has opened to a lukewarm reception from critics following its release. The film, which follows Powell’s character Becket Redfellow as he attempts to eliminate his wealthy relatives to inherit a fortune, has struggled to captivate reviewers despite its intriguing premise and dark comedic themes.
Critical Reception Divides Over Glen Powell’s Latest Film
How to Make a Killing currently holds a 58% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, signaling mixed opinions among film critics. Becket Redfellow’s backstory centers on being disowned by a wealthy family through his mother before his birth, yet he plots to outmaneuver his relatives in pursuit of their wealth. Margaret Qualley plays Julia Steinway, Becket’s close friend, who is involved in the unfolding drama.
Several critics expressed disappointment with the execution of the film’s premise. Kate Erbland of IndieWire criticized the movie’s pacing and focus, stating,
“This should be tighter, meaner, leaner, cutting. How to make a killing? Let’s worry about the smaller stuff first.”
Benjamin Lee from The Guardian described the film as
“An experience akin to watching someone try to light a match when the entire box is wet,”
awarding it two stars. Similarly, Jake Coyle of The Associated Press judged it to be
“A disappointingly flat almost-remake that has neither the biting farce nor the chilling darkness to match its black comedy ambitions,”
and also gave it two stars.
Contrasting Positive Perspectives on the Film’s Strengths
Despite the criticisms, some reviews found redeeming qualities in the movie and Glen Powell’s performance. Amy Nicholson of the Los Angeles Times highlighted the film’s strong start, observing,
“How to Make a Killing boasts an opening so strong that it buys enough audience goodwill to coast through nearly its entire running time. That’s priceless in a screwball murder movie in which everyone’s soul is for sale.”
Variety’s Owen Gleiberman underscored the film’s cultural commentary, noting,
“In the age of Dexter and Succession and Beef, How to Make a Killing just plays as a patchy amusement. Yet I was held by it; the film’s acrid riffs on the hidden depravity of the new greed culture keep it aloft.”
Rachel Leishman from The Mary Sue praised both the dark humor and Powell’s charisma, writing,
“The dark comedy has a lot of fun with the ‘kills’ and Becket’s charm (or maybe that’s just Powell’s natural charisma) lends itself to a run ride of a film. And one that really showcases just how fun Glen Powell can be in a role,”
and giving the film a 4.5-star rating.
Release Dates and Impact on Future Viewership
How to Make a Killing premiered in the United States on February 20 and is scheduled for a March 13 release in the United Kingdom. While the film’s reception leaves its long-term influence uncertain, its combination of dark comedy and thriller elements contributes to ongoing conversations about the genre’s versatility and risks.
For viewers seeking other cinematic options, various guides highlight significant upcoming movie releases and anticipated titles for the year, offering alternative choices amid mixed reactions to this film.
