"How to Make a Killing" is a comedy that incorporates classic elements of the genre, such as satire, witty dialogue, and absurd situations, centered around a protagonist with a clear goal - reclaiming his inheritance despite family opposition. Typical comedic elements include exaggerated family dynamics, social class contrasts, and underdog humor. What sets it apart from other comedies is its sharp focus on wealth disparity and the lengths a blue-collar character will go to navigate an opulent, often absurdly privileged world. This blend of social commentary with humor gives it a distinctive edge, combining heartfelt motivation with comedic absurdity.
Critics' Reviews
50
In a world where we’re bombarded with unnecessary and uninspired remakes of films such as “Road House,” “White Men Can’t Jump” and “War of the Worlds,” I give mad respect to “How to Make a Killing” for its deep-cut source material. John Patton Ford’s black comedy thriller reaches all the way back to the 1949 British gem and film school staple “Kind Hearts and Coronets”—which was loosely based on a 1907 novel—for inspiration, changing the setting from Edwardian-era England to modern-day New York. All right, color me intrigued.
60
Denied a huge inheritance by his billionaire grandfather (Ed Harris), working man Becket Redfellow (Glen Powell) hatches a murderous plan to rightfully claim his wealth. Once the heir to the multi-billion-dollar Redfellow fortune, Becket's tough life unfolds after his mother is disowned by her father, leading him to devise a scheme to kill off the eight relatives in line for the family fortune and win over his childhood sweetheart Julia, making for an entertaining and glitzy American take on a British comedy classic.
Full Cast of How to Make a Killing
Glen Powell
Becket Redfellow
In the movie 'How to Make a Killing,' Glen Powell takes on a role that diverges from his more widely recognized characters, showcasing his versatility as an actor. This film allows him to explore a complex persona that blends charm with cunning, marking a departure from his typically upbeat and charismatic roles seen in productions like 'Set It Up' and 'Top Gun: Maverick.' Powell's performance in this film stands out because it highlights his capacity for dramatic depth and nuanced storytelling, enriching his overall career by demonstrating his adaptability and range beyond the lighter or action-oriented characters he is often known for.
Crew of How to Make a Killing
Full backstage crew list →- Released February 19, 2026