Benoit Blanc returns to solve "an impossibe crime”

"Knives Out" is one of my favorite movies. I remember sitting in the theater and being blown away by Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc, the star-studded cast, and the twisty mystery. As a huge fan of writer/director Rian Johnson, I was thrilled to see him have such a big box-office hit. The movie was so much fun that I could not wait to see more.

When Monsenior Wicks (Josh Brolin) mysteriously dies during Mass, the only suspect is Father Jud (Josh O’Connor). The cops call in Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) to help them solve this impossible crime.

This movie has a lot to say about Catholicism. Modern Catholicism falls into two categories: fire and brimstone, and compassion and forgiveness. Monsenior Wicks represents the former, and Father Jud the latter. Wicks preaches retribution from the pulpit; sinners should be cast out, and only the nightors are worthy. Jud, on the other hand, offers empathy to everyone. Even as he is trying to prove his innocence, he takes the time to offer a listening ear and a prayer for someone in need.

One of the best things about these movies is that Benoit Blanc isn't the lead. He pops in to support one of the other characters: Anna de Armas in "Knives Out," Janelle Monáe in "Glass Onion," and now Josh O' Conner. He is a great actor, so it's no surprise he holds his own in scenes opposite the likes of Brolin or Glenn Close. Jud used to be a boxer, but after one fateful fight, he quit and entered the priesthood. He knows what it feels like to need forgiveness. His willingness to show mercy puts him at odds with Wilks and his congregation.

This is the third "Knives Out Mystery." Side note: the fact that Netflix insists on "A Knives Out Mystery" and not "A Benoit Blanc Mystery" is very dumb. No matter what they subtitle these, I hope they keep getting made forever. Rian Johnson knows how to craft an intriguing mystery, and Daniel Craig is clearly having a blast as Blanc.

9/10

PG-13 for violent content, bloody images, strong language, some crude sexual material, and smoking.

2h 24m