Daniel’s Gotta Die, directed by Jeremy LaLonde and written by Matthew Dressel, is a quirky comedy-thriller that revels in the chaos of family greed. This indie gem is a darkly humorous tale that centers around Daniel Powell (Joel David Moore), a naive optimist who inherits his father’s massive fortune—only to discover his siblings want him dead to claim it.
The premise is simple: Daniel, the good-hearted son of billionaire Edward Powell (Iggy Pop), is tasked with reuniting his estranged siblings—Mia (Mary Lynn Rajskub), Jessica (Carly Chaikin), and Victor (Jason Jones)—for a weekend at the family beach house. If they bond, they split the inheritance; if not, Daniel keeps it all. Unbeknownst to him, his siblings have murder on their minds. LaLonde, known for The Go-Getters, leans into the Hitchcockian vibe Dressel’s script evokes, crafting a tone that’s equal parts suspenseful and satirical.
Joel David Moore shines as Daniel, embodying a jittery sincerity that makes his obliviousness endearing. His performance anchors the film, especially as the plot spirals into chaos. Rajskub’s deadpan Mia is a highlight, her cold exterior cracking in moments that are both hilarious and unsettling. Chaikin’s influencer-obsessed Jessica and Jones’ sleazy Victor round out the dysfunctional quartet. The late Bob Saget, in his final role as the slippery advisor Lawrence, showing everyone his comedic timing is still impeccable.
Dressel’s screenplay, originally titled Killing Daniel, flirts with Knives Out-style whodunit vibes but carves its own path. It’s less about solving a mystery and more about watching the Powell family implode under greed’s weight. Dressel’s ability to weave character-driven humor with escalating stakes keeps the 91-minute runtime brisk.
As Bob Saget’s final bow, the film carries an emotional weight. His performance, layered with charm and menace, reminds us of his range beyond Full House. LaLonde has noted Saget’s love for the project, and that passion shines through, making his scenes a poignant farewell. Daniel’s Gotta Die is a bloody, bonkers ride that doesn’t overstay its welcome. LaLonde and Dressel deliver a film that’s as much about laughing at human flaws as it is about rooting for redemption.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
