Glen Powell is stepping into one of his boldest roles yet, transforming into a charming but ruthless would-be heir in the first look at How To Make A Killing, a darkly stylish thriller directed by Emily the Criminal filmmaker John Patton Ford. The project pairs Powell with an impressive ensemble and a devilish premise built around family fortunes, secrets, and a trail of “accidents” that seem a little too convenient.
A Murderous Inheritance Chase With a Wicked Twist
At the center of the film is Becket Redfellow, the estranged son of Mary — an heiress cast out from her own dynasty after giving birth to him. When Mary dies penniless, Becket decides it’s time to reclaim the life he believes should have always been his. And if that means clearing out the seven relatives standing between him and the Redfellow fortune? So be it.
The official synopsis describes Becket as “ruthlessly determined,” setting off to remove each family member in a series of clever, macabre mishaps. Along the way, he must juggle the affections of Ruth, his grounded girlfriend who wants nothing to do with wealth, and Julia, a seductive ghost from his past who wants everything money can buy.
A Stacked Ensemble Around Powell
Joining Powell in the film is a cast packed with familiar faces:
- Margaret Qualley
- Ed Harris
- Jessica Henwick
- Zach Woods
- Topher Grace
- Raff Law
It’s the kind of lineup that suggests a blend of sharp humor and slow-burn tension — qualities John Patton Ford showcased to striking effect in Emily the Criminal. According to Statesman News Service, the director’s latest film leans even harder into pitch-black comedy and morally messy characters.
Behind the Scenes
The film is fully financed by Studiocanal, with Ron Halpern and Joe Naftalin overseeing production for the studio. Blueprint Pictures’ Pete Czernin and Graham Broadbent — known for films like The Banshees of Inisherin — are also producing, adding even more prestige behind the camera.
Release Date Locked
A24 has set February 20 as the U.S. release date, positioning the film for an early-year debut that often favors edgy thrillers with awards-season buzz carried over from the previous year.
Final Words
With its wicked premise, strong cast, and a director who thrives in morally tangled territory, How To Make A Killing is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most deliciously dark entries. Powell’s turn as a charming sociopath looking to climb back into his family fortune might just be the twisted crowd-pleaser fans didn’t know they needed.
