What a fun movie. Both this movie, and Knives Out are awfully fantastical, but in truly the best way. The way Rian Johnson weaves together multiple story lines, frequently changing the meaning of words between the first and second time you witness a conversation, is just magical. The plot of both films feels a little absurd at times in some twists, but if you allow yourself to suspend your disbelief, they really are a fun ride.

Similar to Knives Out, the film revolves around its fantastic ensemble cast. The only returning character from Knives Out is Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc, the protagonist and a world renowned detective. I don’t recall the characters in the first film being tied so deeply into modern discourse, however this film certainly is. For instance, Kate Hudson plays a clueless model that simply can’t help making offensive and racist remarks; however, she thinks she is simply saying what everyone else is thinking. Similarly, Dave Bautista plays a mens’ rights activist that we are introduced to as he rants about the “Breast-ification” of America. Edward Norton’s character is somewhere between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg on the narcissistic-tech-billionaire spectrum, which makes his bullshit instantly recognizable to the audience, while still fun and new.

Lastly, the cinematography in this film is just as great as Knives out. The colors and lighting are always fantastic, and really immerse you in the scene. There’s one particular moment, which I won’t spoil entirely, where Edward Norton’s character is leaning into a darkened foreground as you can see a perfectly lit Benoit Blanc in the background. Really fantastic stuff, given what will be revealed later in the film.