Glen Powell Stars as Charismatic Serial Killer in Dark Comedy 'Rich Murder'

Glen Powell, known for roles in "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Devotion," leads the cast of the new dark comedy "Rich Murder," directed by John Patton Ford. The film, a contemporary American remake of the 1949 British black comedy "Kind Hearts and Coronets," follows Bect Redfellow (Powell), a working-class young man whose mother was disinherited from a wealthy aristocratic family. Driven by ambition and anger rather than revenge, Bect systematically assassinates seven relatives who stand between him and a vast inheritance.

The movie, which premiered in Europe in March but was delayed nearly four months before its Israeli release, blends thriller and dark humor elements. Powell describes it as a "murder game" akin to a heist, with family members portrayed as chess pieces. The narrative is framed by Bect’s prison narration, immersing viewers in his calculated mindset. Powell aimed to challenge audiences to set aside moral judgment and root for a killer through his character’s charisma and confidence.

Supporting roles include Ed Harris as the ruthless family patriarch, Zach Woods as a self-important New York photographer, and Topher Grace as a megachurch preacher. Grace expressed enthusiasm for his exaggerated role, recalling the intense filming of a mass sermon scene with 600 extras. The story also explores Bect’s emotional conflict between two women: Julia (Margaret Qualley), a femme fatale from his past, and Ruth (Jessica Hecht), who remains unaware of Bect’s crimes and serves as his moral anchor.

Hecht noted that her scenes felt almost like a romantic comedy, emphasizing the importance of genuine chemistry between her character and Bect to engage the audience emotionally. The film’s provocative premise and dark satire aim to entertain while prompting viewers to reconsider their sympathies as they witness Bect’s deadly quest for wealth unfold.