Knives Out: A Complex Film about Simple Things

Rian Johnson's attention to detail is explored through examples from his filmography, including 'Knives Out.' His meticulous storytelling ensures that even the smallest elements, initially unnoticed, become crucial to the narrative. 'Knives Out,' a 2019 whodunit directed by Johnson, exemplifies this with its intricate plot where every detail, from Harlan's baseball to characters' actions, contributes to the film's profound impact. The central argument of this video is that the most critical detail in 'Knives Out' is Benoit Blanc's silent observation of a blood drop on Marta's shoe, which defines the story's complexity and simplicity.

The video describes the Thrombey family members as exaggerated, flawed personalities who embody various negative traits. Despite their selfishness and pretentiousness, they are portrayed with enough depth to appear as real, flawed individuals. The contrast between their facade of moral superiority and their true selfish motivations is highlighted. The narrative emphasizes how these characters, designed for the audience to dislike, are still human, making their actions and interactions more engaging and impactful.

Despite their negative traits, the Thrombeys are shown as deeply insecure individuals striving for their father's approval. The video delves into the psychological and emotional reasons behind their behaviors, showing how they have turned themselves into caricatures to gain societal approval. This obsession with appearance and winning is a reflection of their father's distant, game-like communication style, influencing their competitive and self-centered nature.

Marta Cabrera, the least conspicuous character, becomes the story's focal point. Her simplicity and honesty set her apart from the Thrombeys, making her a relatable and likable character. The narrative shifts genres, transforming from a whodunit to a cat-and-mouse thriller, with Marta revealed as the accidental killer. Despite this revelation, her genuine kindness and emotional intelligence make her the film's most compelling character, contrasting sharply with the Thrombeys' deceit and selfishness.

Marta's journey through the film involves navigating the Thrombey family's game-like mentality. Despite her reluctance, she is drawn into their competitive world. Her actions, driven by selflessness and the need to protect her family, starkly contrast with the Thrombeys' selfish motivations. The video highlights her moral struggle and the moment she chooses to save Fran, emphasizing her inherent goodness despite the pressure to conform to the family's deceitful tactics.

The video summarizes the film's conclusion, where Benoit Blanc uncovers the truth about Harlan's death and Ransom's role. It discusses the thematic focus on truth and how different characters handle it. Unlike Fran and Ransom, who use the truth for personal gain, Marta uses it to protect herself and reveal the real culprit. The narrative underscores that kindness and honesty, as shown by Marta, ultimately prevail over deceit and selfishness.

The video concludes by reflecting on the film's core message: in a world filled with complexity and deceit, kindness and simplicity are powerful virtues. Benoit Blanc's trust in Marta's goodness is highlighted as a crucial element that leads to the story's resolution. The film, with its intricate details and profound simplicity, ultimately advocates for the strength of kindness and moral integrity.