*Spoiler free*

Everyone loves a good murder mystery. 

Family and friends gather around to play the legendary board game of Clue, competing against one another to solve the crime, win the game and earn bragging rights. Critically acclaimed writers such as Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie have introduced the world to detective novels that allow readers to immerse themselves into fictional worlds similar to the game of Clue.

“Knives Out” from writer and director Rian Johnson, is the perfect whodunit, drama and thriller. Right from the start of the film, the audience is introduced to the Clue-like world of renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey and his selfish, dysfunctional family and staff. Unfortunately, Thrombey becomes the star of his own novel — the victim. 

The suspects, notable A-list celebrities, include Ana de Armas, Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Don Johnson and more. To solve the mystery, Daniel Craig plays Benoit Blanc, a private detective hired to investigate the mysterious death of the patriarch. 

“It’s fun to watch super-serious actors get to misbehave,” the New York Post said. Every actor steps outside of their usual genre of film and adds comedy, wit and drama to the inner workings of the film’s family and staff.

Starring actors who are known for playing iconic characters such as Captain America and James Bond, the film was destined to soar at the box office. Since its opening on Thanksgiving, “Knives Out” has made more than $250 million at the global box office, surpassing its opening weekend projections in a competitive market against blockbuster films such as “Jumanji: The Next Level” and “Frozen 2”.

Not only do moviegoers praise the film, but critics do as well. In fact, the film is certified fresh at 97% by Rotten Tomatoes.

Also, Knives Out was nominated for three Golden Globes: Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy, Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy (Ana de Armas) and Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (Daniel Craig).

Soon on Feb. 9, “Knives Out” may win an Oscar. Johnson earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Competition includes other critically acclaimed screenplays such as “1917”, “Parasite”, Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” and Noah Baumbach’s “Marriage Story”.

Johnson’s “Knives Out” surprised critics and moviegoers alike with plot twist after plot twist and kept them on the edge of their seat while trying to guess who the culprit is until the reveal. The film’s all-star cast, witty script, beautiful cinematography and lavish set decor allow the audience to become a part of a classic murder mystery.

“Knives Out” simply put, is a masterpiece.