Introduction
Are you torn between which movie to watch first, Knives Out or Glass Onion? While both movies are critically acclaimed in their own right, they may be hard to categorize together. Some argue that watching one movie before the other can be more enjoyable, while others believe that the order doesn’t matter. In this article, we will examine the different reasons for and against watching Knives Out before Glass Onion.
Comparison and Contrast
Knives Out and Glass Onion may seem like very different movies, but they have several similarities as well. Both movies are mystery thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat with stunning twists and turns. Knives Out takes place in modern-day Massachusetts, while Glass Onion is set in a dystopian future. Both movies are renowned for their excellent characterization and acting performances.
However, there are also differences between the two films. Knives Out is a whodunnit murder mystery movie, while Glass Onion is a sci-fi thriller with mind-bending twists. Even the directorial styles vastly differ, with Rian Johnson’s Knives Out overtly cinematic, and Glass Onion directed by M. Night Shyamalan, considered a master of suspense.
Chronological Order
When it comes to the chronology of the films, Glass Onion is a prequel to Knives Out. Glass Onion is set in the future where Knives Out takes place. Therefore, the question arises: is it essential to watch Glass Onion before Knives Out?
While watching Glass Onion first can give you a better understanding of the world and the references in Knives Out, both movies can be watched independently without confusion. Therefore, the chronological order may not be important to all viewers, unless you are a die-hard fan of the movies and wish to delve deeper into the characters and references in the plot.
Character Analysis
Both movies feature well-crafted characters with complex backstories. Knives Out boasts an ensemble cast, with Daniel Craig as the detective Benoit Blanc and Chris Evans as the black sheep of the family. Glass Onion, on the other hand, focuses on a single main character, with James McAvoy playing a man with 24 distinct personalities.
While watching both movies can provide more context and nuance to the character analysis, they can still be appreciated independently. The character development in both films is masterfully written, and the performances stand out on their own regardless of the viewing order.
Genre Analysis
Genre plays a significant role in both Knives Out and Glass Onion. Knives Out is a classic whodunnit murder mystery that blends elements of comedy and suspense. Glass Onion, however, is a sci-fi thriller that flouts genre conventions and subverts expectations, like many of Shyamalan’s movies.
Watching Knives Out first can help you appreciate the genre of Glass Onion better. It contextualizes the twist ending of Glass Onion with a similar style in Knives Out. That being said, both movies can be watched independently as well, since they are vastly different movies with varied genres.
Director’s Style
Directorial style is another factor to consider when deciding which movie to watch first. Rian Johnson’s Knives Out is stylistically a more conventional movie, with overtly cinematic cinematography and quirky editing techniques. On the other hand, M. Night Shyamalan’s Glass Onion is more subdued and slow-burning, with traditionally shot scenes.
Watching Knives Out first can help you appreciate the stylistic differences in Glass Onion better, but both films can still be enjoyed independently of each other. However, if you’re a fan of a particular director style, you may prefer to watch those movies first.
Plot Structure
Plot structure is another factor to consider when deciding the viewing order of Knives Out and Glass Onion. Both movies have unique storytelling methods that lure viewers into believing one thing before a dramatic twist at the end.
Watching Glass Onion first can make the twists in Knives Out seem predictable, but watching Knives Out first can help you appreciate the intricate plotting in Glass Onion. Ultimately the decision depends on your preference as a viewer and how much you prioritize the experience of discovering a twist in the plot.
Fan Theories
Both Knives Out and Glass Onion have earned a dedicated fan base, some of whom have developed intricate fan theories around the movies. These theories range from conspiracy theories to elaborate plot explanations and have been subject to intense online discussions.
Watching both movies can help you appreciate the Easter eggs and references in fan theories, but it’s not necessary to understand the plot. However, following the fan theories adds another layer of fun to the viewing experience. But it’s up to you whether you want to factor them into your viewing order decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to watch Knives Out before Glass Onion largely depends on your preference and personal viewing habit. While Knives Out can provide context to the world of Glass Onion, both movies have enough merit to be enjoyed on their own. However, if you want a more nuanced and layered understanding of the characters and references, then watching both movies in order won’t hurt.
Ultimately, whether you watch Knives Out or Glass Onion first is entirely up to you. Both movies offer unique experiences that can be appreciated on their own, but watching both in any order provides context and depth that can enhance the overall viewing experience.
