Glen Powell’s Latest and the Resurgence of Black Comedy Thrillers
Glen Powell is quickly becoming a name synonymous with darkly comedic thrillers. Following his role in Richard Linklater’s “Hit Man,” Powell stars in “How to Make a Killing,” a film drawing comparisons to the classic Ealing black comedy “Kind Hearts, and Coronets.” However, critics note a lack of the tonal balance that made both “Hit Man” and the 1949 film so successful. This raises a question: is there a growing appetite for this genre, and what does it take to get it right?
The Appeal of Dark Humor in a Complex World
Black comedy, at its core, allows audiences to confront uncomfortable truths through laughter. In a world grappling with economic inequality, social unrest, and political turmoil, the genre offers a cathartic release. Films like “How to Make a Killing” tap into anxieties surrounding wealth disparity, as the protagonist seeks to reclaim his inheritance through drastic measures. The film’s premise – a man systematically targeting his wealthy relatives – is inherently provocative, prompting viewers to question societal structures and moral boundaries.
The “Hit Man” Effect: Powell’s Rising Star Power
Powell’s involvement in both “Hit Man” and “How to Make a Killing” is significant. His ability to portray characters with a glib, yet subtly menacing edge, is proving to be a draw for audiences. “Hit Man” successfully navigated the tricky balance of humor and suspense, a feat that “How to Make a Killing” reportedly struggles to achieve. This suggests that a strong lead performance can elevate the genre, but isn’t enough to guarantee success.
The Challenge of Remaking Classics and Standing Out
“How to Make a Killing” explicitly draws inspiration from “Kind Hearts and Coronets,” a film celebrated for Alec Guinness’s masterful performance playing multiple roles. Remaking or riffing on classics is always a risk. The new film’s decision not to follow Guinness’s chameleonic approach, instead opting for a single protagonist, is a departure that doesn’t appear to have paid off, according to reviews. The film’s failure to deliver the biting farce or chilling darkness of its inspiration highlights the difficulty of recapturing the magic of a beloved original.
The Rise of Satirical Thrillers: A Competitive Landscape
The recent release of Park Chan-wook’s “No Other Choice” further complicates the landscape. This film, like “How to Make a Killing,” explores the lengths people will go to for economic advancement. The crowded field of satirical thrillers means that films need to offer a truly unique perspective or execution to stand out. Simply presenting a dark comedic premise isn’t enough; the film must deliver on both the humor and the suspense.
The Importance of Tone and Supporting Performances
Reviews of “How to Make a Killing” consistently point to a lack of tonal consistency and an uninteresting protagonist. However, some performances, particularly Jessica Henwick’s, are praised for adding depth and nuance. This underscores the importance of strong supporting performances in elevating a film, even when the central narrative falters. Zach Woods’ portrayal of a painter who calls himself “White Basquiat” also received positive attention, suggesting that quirky, memorable characters can inject life into a potentially flat story.
Class Themes and Genre Narratives: A Promising Combination
Director John Patton Ford’s previous work, “Emily the Criminal,” demonstrated an ability to connect contemporary class themes with gritty genre narratives. This suggests a potential for exploring social commentary within the thriller format. However, “How to Make a Killing” reportedly fails to fully realize this potential, remaining a disappointingly polished, yet ultimately unimpactful, film.
FAQ
Q: Is “How to Make a Killing” worth watching?
A: Reviews suggest it’s a passable film, carried by Glen Powell and some strong supporting performances, but ultimately falls short of its potential.
Q: What is “Kind Hearts and Coronets” about?
A: It’s a 1949 British black comedy about a man who systematically attempts to murder the eight relatives standing between him and a dukedom.
Q: What makes a good black comedy thriller?
A: A successful film in this genre requires a delicate balance of humor, suspense, and social commentary, along with strong performances and a compelling narrative.
Q: Where can I watch “How to Make a Killing”?
A: It opens in theaters on Friday, February 24, 2026.
Did you know? Alec Guinness played all eight of the victims in “Kind Hearts and Coronets,” a remarkable feat of acting.
Pro Tip: If you enjoy dark comedies, explore films like “Dr. Strangelove,” “In Bruges,” and “The Wolf of Wall Street” for examples of the genre done exceptionally well.
What are your favorite black comedy thrillers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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