John Patton Ford’s How to Make a Killing is a sly, modern black comedy that deserves far more love than some detractors suggest. Loosely inspired by classics like Kind Hearts and Coronets, the film follows Becket Redfellow (Glen Powell), a blue-collar everyman disowned by his ultra-wealthy family, who embarks on a ruthless quest to claim his rightful inheritance by any means necessary. What could have been a grim revenge tale instead becomes a breezy, darkly humorous thriller that skewers nepotism, greed, and the absurd lives of the obscenely rich.
Glen Powell is the undeniable star here, bringing his signature magnetic charm to Becket in a way that makes you root for the anti-hero even as his body count rises. Powell’s easy charisma—honed in roles from Top Gun: Maverick to Hit Man—turns a potentially unlikeable character into someone endlessly watchable. He balances slick confidence with subtle vulnerability, making Becket’s increasingly chaotic decisions feel thrilling. Critics may quibble about the role fitting him “too well,” but that’s precisely the point: his golden-retriever energy makes you cheer for the killer.
Margaret Qualley is magnetic as always, stealing scenes as Julia Steinway, Becket’s childhood crush turned enigmatic femme fatale. Her presence injects electric chemistry and unpredictability whenever she appears, with leggy confidence and sharp amorality that elevate every interaction.
The humor hits just right—not over-the-top slapstick, but crisp, dry wit that punctuates the escalating murders. The killings are clever and inventive, often played for ironic laughs rather than gore, which keeps the tone light even as the stakes rise.One of the film’s strengths is its refusal to fully moralize. It questions whether the path to wealth is worth the cost, but lets the audience decide, delivering a satisfyingly dark edge.
Despite some predictable beats, the film never drags, thanks to strong execution and the cast’s chemistry. It’s the kind of original, adult-oriented comedy-thriller we need more of—entertaining, thought-provoking, and shot with real craft.
How to Make a Killing stands out as a smart, fun diversion. It’s not trying to be revolutionary, but it succeeds brilliantly at what it sets out to do: deliver a devious, charismatic lead in a twisted tale of inheritance and revenge.
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