This film was previously reviewed in September 2022 as part of our TIFF coverage.

From writer-director Rian Johnson, the highly anticipated Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery features an impressive lineup of stars, including Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., Jessica Henwick, Madelyn Cline, Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista, and of course, Daniel Craig reprising his role as the now iconic Detective Benoit Blanc, who’s been sent on another case in Greece.

Following Johnson’s impressive Knives Out, which has rightfully secured its place as one of the best whodunit films of recent years, it’s unsurprising that Glass Onion is an absolute triumph. It’s yet another masterclass in storytelling that’s full of twists and turns, consistently delivering hilarious gags as clever surprises are uncovered that lurk behind every corner. Instead of trying to outsmart the audience, Johnson focuses on making the journey as fun as possible, the result being one of the most engaging moviegoing experiences since, well, the release of the first film. 

Like Knives Out, each character represents a specific type of self-important jerk and when forced together, it’s an obvious recipe for disaster, which is one of the most joyous aspects of this story. Everything is heightened by yet another sensational ensemble who disappear into their roles with such skill that it’s difficult to imagine them played by any other bunch. Though everyone holds their own, there are clear standout performances from Monáe and Craig, a duo that’s just electric every time they’re on screen together. Craig arguably delivers some of his best work in this film, but Monáe completely steals the show.

Glass Onion is much larger in scope and somehow even better than the first film, which is hard to believe possible, but Johnson continues to impress with his ability to write murder-mysteries that are a total riot.

RATING: 5/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., Jessica Henwick, Madelyn Cline, Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista

DIRECTOR: Rian Johnson

WRITER: Rian Johnson

SYNOPSIS: Famed Southern detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) travels to Greece for his latest case, in Rian Johnson’s follow-up to Knives Out.