In a recent development, Bella Mackie’s darkly humorous novel titled “How To Kill Your Family” gained attention for its striking resemblance to other works revolving around family murders to secure inheritances. This similarity led to a legal dispute with Netflix over alleged copyright infringement, eventually paving the way for a potential adaptation featuring Anya Taylor-Joy. Prior to this, the 2014 Tony-winning musical “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder” depicted a story where a disowned individual eliminates eight senior family members to reclaim his birthright.
John Patton Ford’s upcoming film, “How To Make a Killing,” starring Glen Powell, draws inspiration from the 1949 black comedy classic “Kind Hearts and Coronets,” which itself originated from an earlier novel. Despite the numerous adaptations stemming from a single narrative, Ford’s version stands out for its refined exploration of amoral ambition and the flaws within a rigid social hierarchy. By modernizing the storyline and enhancing its core message, Ford’s adaptation, along with its predecessors, continues to intrigue audiences.
The original source material for “How To Make a Killing,” the 1907 novel “Israel Rank: The Autobiography of a Criminal,” underwent several transformations over the years to address its controversial themes. Ford’s take on the story delves into themes of aristocracy and societal critique, resonating with contemporary audiences while staying true to the narrative’s essence.
Glen Powell portrays Becket Redfellow, a character disowned by his affluent family due to his mother’s frowned-upon relationship. The plot unfolds as Becket navigates a series of elaborate schemes to eliminate his relatives and secure his inheritance, culminating in a memoir-style retelling from death row. Unlike its predecessors, “How To Make a Killing” features a diverse cast, including Ed Harris, Topher Grace, Zach Woods, Jessica Henwick, and Margaret Qualley, each adding depth and charm to the storyline.
While the film’s comedic elements occasionally falter, Ford’s decision to set the story in an American backdrop adds a refreshing twist reminiscent of “The Wolf of Wall Street.” The revised ending offers a unique perspective on success and consequences, challenging traditional narratives of crime and punishment. Ford’s adaptation delivers a poignant commentary on societal disparities and the elusive nature of personal advancement in the face of entrenched wealth inequalities, offering a fresh take on the American Dream.
Despite its somber tone, “How To Make a Killing” presents a compelling exploration of societal norms and economic struggles, positioning itself as a thought-provoking addition to the genre of dark comedies.
