Michael Keaton’s ‘Knox Goes Away’ Film Review: A Dark Thriller That Struggles to Find Depth

Michael Keaton‘s latest film, ‘Knox Goes Away,’ presents a dark and intricate thriller narrative that falls short in exploring its characters’ depths. The story follows hired killer John ‘Aristotle’ Knox, played by Keaton, as he navigates his isolated existence and faces unexpected challenges.

Knox’s meticulously structured life is disrupted when he receives devastating news about his health—diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare form of dementia. Concurrently, his estranged son, portrayed by James Marsden, seeks his help in a dire situation that only Knox’s expertise can resolve.

As the plot unfolds, Knox races against time to save his son, employing his methodical approach and strategic thinking. Meanwhile, a determined detective, Emily Ikari, portrayed by Suzy Nakamura, intensifies the pursuit, adding tension to the already complex narrative.

While the film maintains a sleek and engaging pace, reminiscent of the works of directors like Michale Mann and Jean-Pierre Melville, it falls short in fully exploring Knox’s character. The narrative touches on his past and skillset but lacks a profound understanding of his motivations and internal conflicts.

‘Knox Goes Away’ aims for redemption and family reconciliation, emphasizing Knox’s likability even amidst his morally ambiguous profession. The stellar cast, including Joanna Kulig, Ray McKinnon, and Marcia Gay Harden, adds depth to the story but leaves questions unanswered about Knox’s true nature and the impact of his choices.