In a recent development, the novel “How To Kill Your Family” by Bella Mackie, depicting a darkly humorous tale of a girl eliminating her relatives for an inheritance, sparked a legal dispute with Netflix over alleged copyright infringement. This lawsuit, mirroring the storyline of the book, has now been settled, potentially paving the way for a future adaptation starring Anya Taylor-Joy.
Prior to this, the 2014 Tony-winning musical “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder” narrated a similar plot of a disowned man reclaiming his birthright by eliminating eight senior family members. Preceding these works is the inspiration behind John Patton Ford’s latest film, “How To Make a Killing,” featuring Glen Powell in the lead role, where a man eliminates estranged relatives obstructing his financial gain. The movie is said to draw from the 1949 black comedy classic “Kind Hearts and Coronets,” which was originally adapted from a novel.
The trend of multiple adaptations from a single source material is not uncommon. While some literary enthusiasts may find it disappointing, especially after Emerald Fennell’s recent reinterpretation of “Wuthering Heights,” John Patton Ford’s take on the darkly comedic theme offers a fresh perspective.
Ford’s version of the story enhances its exploration of amoral ambition and challenges the notion of meritocracy within a rigid social structure. The alterations made in this rendition serve to modernize the narrative and reinforce its underlying message, similar to the adaptations that have come before it.
The continuous evolution of the original story over time has not only refined its critique of aristocracy but also made it relevant to contemporary audiences. The adaptations have effectively retained the core themes while infusing a current perspective, making them engaging and thought-provoking for viewers.
In “How To Make a Killing,” the protagonist, Becket Redfellow, portrayed by Glen Powell, embarks on a quest to eliminate his wealthy relatives for the inheritance he was denied. The plot unfolds as Becket recounts his elaborate schemes from death row, adding a layer of suspense to the narrative.
Unlike its predecessor “Kind Hearts and Coronets,” which featured one actor playing all doomed victims, “How To Make a Killing” boasts a diverse cast including Ed Harris, Topher Grace, and Zach Woods, each bringing a unique flair to their respective roles. The supporting characters, like Ruth and Julia Steinway, portrayed by Jessica Henwick and Margaret Qualley, add depth and charm to the storyline.
While the film excels in certain aspects, such as its altered setting to an American backdrop, some elements, like the overreliance on comedy, may feel out of place. Nevertheless, Ford’s reimagining of the ending offers a poignant commentary on ambition and the illusions of success, diverging from conventional expectations.
“How To Make a Killing” challenges traditional narratives of personal advancement and shines a light on the harsh realities of wealth inequality. It presents a grim yet captivating portrayal of the struggles faced by individuals in a society driven by economic disparities, offering a fresh take on the American Dream.
Despite the mixed reactions, the film’s critical examination of societal norms and wealth gaps sets it apart from its predecessors, making it a compelling watch that delves into the complexities of ambition and inheritance.