Movies Like Knives Out (2019)

In 2019, Rian Johnson gifted cinephiles with a modern-day classic that revived the murder mystery genre with a twist – "Knives Out." Packed with wit, charm, and unexpected turns, this film left audiences craving more of the intricate storytelling and suspenseful plots that define a great whodunit. If you're one of those enthusiasts hungry for films that echo the brilliance of "Knives Out," look no further. Here's a curated list of movies that will satisfy your appetite for thrilling mysteries and clever plot twists.

Movies Like Knives Out

01. Clue (1985):

"Clue (1985)" and "Knives Out (2019)" share a common thematic thread as both films belong to the murder mystery genre, yet each brings its own unique flair to the table. "Clue," directed by Jonathan Lynn, is a comedic adaptation of the classic board game, featuring a star-studded ensemble cast and multiple alternate endings, adding an interactive element to its whodunit narrative. Similarly, Rian Johnson's "Knives Out" is a modern take on the genre, blending humor and suspense in a tale of a wealthy patriarch's death and the investigation that ensues. 

Both films boast intricate plots, unexpected twists, and a focus on eccentric characters, creating a sense of intrigue and unpredictability. While "Clue" utilizes its ensemble cast for comedic effect, "Knives Out" explores contemporary social commentary while maintaining a riveting mystery. Despite the decades that separate them, both movies demonstrate the enduring appeal of a well-crafted murder mystery, each leaving audiences guessing until the final reveal.

02. Murder on the Orient Express (2017):

"Murder on the Orient Express (2017)" and "Knives Out (2019)" share striking similarities as both films belong to the mystery genre and feature intricate plots centered around solving a murder. In "Murder on the Orient Express," directed by Kenneth Branagh, renowned detective Hercule Poirot is tasked with unraveling the mystery behind a murder that occurs on a luxurious train. Similarly, "Knives Out," directed by Rian Johnson, follows the investigation led by detective Benoit Blanc into the death of a wealthy crime novelist. 

Both films boast impressive ensemble casts and showcase the complexity of human relationships, deceit, and the art of deduction. Additionally, both directors pay homage to the classic whodunit style, infusing modern elements to captivate audiences. While each movie stands on its own with unique storytelling, the parallels in their genre, theme, and engaging narratives make them notable entries in the contemporary mystery genre.

03. Gosford Park (2001):

"Gosford Park" (2001) and "Knives Out" (2019) share a common thread as both films belong to the murder mystery genre, combining elements of whodunit with social commentary. Directed by Robert Altman, "Gosford Park" is set in 1932 England, unfolding during a weekend shooting party at the estate of Sir William McCordle. The film intricately weaves the lives of both the aristocratic guests and their servants, revealing hidden secrets and scandals. 

Similarly, Rian Johnson's "Knives Out" modernizes the genre with a star-studded ensemble cast and a murder investigation centered around the wealthy Thrombey family. Both films employ a blend of humor and suspense, showcasing the dynamics between the upper class and their staff. While "Gosford Park" explores the nuances of class distinctions in early 20th-century England, "Knives Out" delves into contemporary issues within an affluent American family, offering a fresh take on the timeless murder mystery genre.

04. The Hateful Eight (2015):

"The Hateful Eight (2015)" and "Knives Out (2019)" share a thematic connection through their masterful execution of the whodunit genre and their exploration of complex interpersonal dynamics. Both films are directed by acclaimed filmmaker Rian Johnson, who demonstrates a keen ability to craft suspenseful narratives with a touch of dark humor. In "The Hateful Eight," set in post-Civil War Wyoming, a group of diverse and untrustworthy characters find themselves confined in a haberdashery due to a snowstorm, leading to a tense and mysterious atmosphere. 

Similarly, "Knives Out" unfolds in a lavish estate, following the death of a wealthy crime novelist. The film cleverly weaves a web of intricate plot twists and reveals, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Both movies boast an ensemble cast, engaging dialogue, and visually striking cinematography, making them standout examples of the modern mystery-thriller genre, showcasing Johnson's ability to subvert expectations while delivering captivating storytelling.

05. Brick (2005):

"Brick (2005)" and "Knives Out (2019)" share a striking similarity in their unique approach to genre conventions. While "Brick" is a neo-noir film directed by Rian Johnson, the same director behind "Knives Out," both movies demonstrate Johnson's penchant for subverting expectations within established genres. In "Brick," Johnson transplants classic film noir elements into a high school setting, creating a stylized and intricate mystery. 

Similarly, "Knives Out" is a modern whodunit with a star-studded ensemble cast, putting a contemporary spin on the traditional murder mystery. Both films showcase Johnson's skill in blending genres, infusing fresh perspectives into familiar narrative frameworks. Furthermore, the films share a keen attention to detail, sharp dialogue, and clever plotting, making them stand out as inventive and engaging cinematic experiences.

06. And Then There Were None (1945):

"And Then There Were None" (1945) and "Knives Out" (2019) share a striking similarity in their core narrative structure, as both films belong to the mystery genre and revolve around a group of individuals brought together under mysterious circumstances. In "And Then There Were None," directed by René Clair and based on Agatha Christie's novel, ten strangers find themselves on a secluded island and are systematically killed off one by one, creating an intense atmosphere of suspense and suspicion. 

Similarly, in Rian Johnson's "Knives Out," a renowned detective investigates the death of a wealthy crime novelist during a family gathering, uncovering dark secrets and hidden motives among the eclectic group of suspects. Both films masterfully blend elements of suspense, intricate plot twists, and a complex web of character relationships, delivering gripping mysteries that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. While separated by several decades, these films showcase the enduring appeal of the classic whodunit formula in captivating and engaging storytelling.

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07. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011):

"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)" and "Knives Out (2019)" may seem dissimilar at first glance, given their distinct genres and narrative settings, but they share a common thread in their exploration of intricate mysteries. Both films delve into the complexities of solving a puzzle, unraveling layers of deception, and exposing hidden truths. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" is a gripping crime thriller based on Stieg Larsson's novel, centered around investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist and the enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander as they tackle a decades-old disappearance. 

On the other hand, "Knives Out" is a modern whodunit, where renowned detective Benoit Blanc investigates the death of a wealthy crime novelist. Both movies boast compelling characters and employ a combination of suspenseful storytelling, unexpected plot twists, and meticulous attention to detail, captivating audiences with their suspenseful and intellectually engaging narratives.

08. The Sixth Sense (1999):

The Sixth Sense (1999) and Knives Out (2019) share a common thread of gripping storytelling that hinges on unexpected twists and turns, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Both films masterfully blend genres, with The Sixth Sense delving into supernatural and psychological elements, while Knives Out takes on a comedic yet intricate whodunit plot. M. Night Shyamalan's The Sixth Sense is renowned for its iconic twist ending that redefines the entire narrative, leaving viewers stunned. 

Similarly, Rian Johnson's Knives Out employs a clever narrative structure and surprising revelations, challenging viewers to piece together the puzzle of a murder mystery. Both movies are celebrated for their exceptional writing, compelling characters, and the ability to subvert audience expectations, making them memorable entries in the realm of suspenseful cinema.

09. Sleuth (1972):

"Sleuth (1972)" and "Knives Out (2019)" share striking similarities in their approach to the murder mystery genre, despite being released decades apart. Both films showcase a masterful blend of wit, suspense, and clever storytelling. In "Sleuth," directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, the plot revolves around a wealthy mystery writer and a younger man who engage in a battle of wits and deception. Similarly, "Knives Out," directed by Rian Johnson, explores a wealthy family gathering after the death of their patriarch, with a brilliant detective investigating the circumstances. 

Both movies are known for their intricate plots, unexpected twists, and a strong focus on character interactions. Additionally, both boast stellar ensemble casts and showcase the meticulous craft of filmmaking. While "Sleuth" is a classic from the 1970s, "Knives Out" pays homage to the genre with a modern flair, making them both memorable contributions to the world of whodunits.

10. Brick Mansions (2014):

"Brick Mansions (2014)" and "Knives Out (2019)" may seem like two vastly different movies at first glance, belonging to distinct genres – the former a high-octane action film and the latter a clever whodunit mystery. However, a closer inspection reveals an intriguing similarity in both films' narrative structures. Both movies revolve around the investigation of a crime that takes place within a confined space, with characters from different backgrounds and motivations converging to unravel the truth. 

"Brick Mansions" follows an undercover cop and a vigilante as they infiltrate a dangerous urban area, while "Knives Out" revolves around a detective investigating the mysterious death of a wealthy family patriarch. Despite their differences in tone and setting, both films effectively employ suspenseful storytelling, unexpected plot twists, and a diverse ensemble cast to keep audiences engaged from start to finish. Ultimately, these seemingly disparate movies share a common thread in their ability to captivate viewers through the exploration of crime and its consequences within constrained environments.

11. Mystic River (2003):

"Mystic River (2003)" and "Knives Out (2019)" may seem disparate at first glance, as one is a gritty crime drama and the other a comedic mystery thriller. However, both films share a common thread in their exploration of the intricate web of human relationships and the lasting impact of past events on individuals. In "Mystic River," director Clint Eastwood delves into the complex dynamics of childhood trauma and the ripple effects it has on friendships and families. 

Similarly, "Knives Out," directed by Rian Johnson, weaves a tale of family secrets and betrayal, using a murder mystery as the backdrop to explore the intricate connections between its characters. Both films masterfully blend suspense and emotional depth, employing stellar ensemble casts to bring their respective stories to life. While their genres may differ, the thematic underpinnings of these films demonstrate the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate the human condition.

12. The Others (2001):

"The Others" (2001) and "Knives Out" (2019) share thematic similarities despite belonging to different genres. Both films are mysteries that keep audiences on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns. In "The Others," directed by Alejandro Amenábar, the story revolves around a woman and her two light-sensitive children who believe their house is haunted. The narrative cleverly manipulates perceptions, leading to a shocking revelation in the end. 

Similarly, Rian Johnson's "Knives Out" is a modern-day whodunit with a stellar ensemble cast. It revolves around the investigation of the death of a wealthy crime novelist, weaving a complex web of family secrets and motives. Both movies showcase the directors' adeptness at crafting suspenseful narratives and surprising audiences with ingenious plot developments, making them standout examples of the mystery genre.

If "Knives Out" left you hungry for more cleverly crafted mysteries with unexpected twists, these films offer a delectable feast for your cinematic cravings. From classic adaptations to modern masterpieces, each movie on this list captures the essence of intrigue and suspense that made "Knives Out" a standout in the world of whodunit. 

So, dim the lights, grab some popcorn, and prepare to be enthralled by these captivating mysteries that will keep you guessing until the credits roll.

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