MOVIE REVIEW
Queen of Knives
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Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director(s): Jon Delgado
Writer(s): Lindsay Joy, Gene Pope
Cast: Gene Pope, Mel Harris, Roxi Pope, Emily Bennett, Alexandra Renzo, Tara Westwood, Barbara Tirrell, Carmen LoBue, Justin Sams, Jay Russell, Robert Costanzo, Zebedee Row, Arthur Langlie, Molly Lloyd, Bonnie Rose, Stephanie Rocio, Robert Anthony Jones, Christopher Laing
Where To Watch: available to rent/own on all digital HD internet, cable, and satellite platforms worldwide, as well as on DVD, starting on March 22, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Thanks to one of the best movie opening sequences I’ve seen, I was instantly hooked and pulled into this world. This film is a fantastic blend of drama, humor, and a complex mix of fun dynamics, all set against the ever-evolving backdrop of Brooklyn and the Benetto family’s unique relationships and redefining what it means to be family. It's an indie drama that hits all the right notes, combining depth of character development with a storyline that's as engaging as it is relatable. 

Central to QUEEN OF KNIVES is the dynamic between Kaitlin (Roxi Pope) and Sadie (Emily Bennett), sisters who bring the film's emotional core to life with their spectacular performances. Despite their contrasting personalities, they capture the essence of a profound sibling bond that feels incredibly real. Bennett, in particular, makes a memorable impact right from her first scene (I don’t think there’s anything better for a film than to start it off with a deep guttural laugh,) bringing an utterly captivating mix of innovation and charm to her role. The discovery of a prequel, KING OF KNIVES, has only added to my anticipation of diving deeper into the backstory of these compelling characters. I can’t wait to check it out and see where these stories all started! Just know that you can dive right in, though; this is a perfectly self-contained story.

Jon Delgado directed the film with a specific vision. It offers a penetrating look into the trials and tribulations of the Benetto family, navigating the turbulent aspects of adulthood and moral ambiguity with grace and intelligence. Each cast member delivers a nuanced performance, engaging every scene with authenticity and emotional depth. It’s not often that a film offers up cast members with this much purpose; each character adds to the overall arc of the movie story.

Gene Pope, portraying patriarch Frank Benetto, embarks on a quest for purpose amid turmoil. His journey is intricately mixed with those of his daughters and ex-wife, Kathy (Mel Harris). The entry of Autumn (Alexandra Renzo) into Frank's life introduces a pivotal shift, hinting at the transformative power of new relationships and self-reflection.

The screenplay, a collaboration between Lindsay Joy and Gene Pope, balances light-hearted moments with impactful drama, ensuring that QUEEN OF KNIVES resonates deeply with its audience. This film transcends its indie label to speak to a broader audience, inviting viewers to explore the deeper truths and experiences that define our existence. As a sequel, it tackles themes of change and rejuvenation, offering a new perspective on the Benetto family's saga through the eyes of its female members.

QUEEN OF KNIVES reflects our lives and gives us insight into the family's complexities, combining multiple genres with humor, drama, and genuine emotion to craft an entertaining and thought-provoking tale. It celebrates the strength of family, the journey of self-discovery, and the possibility of finding light in the darkness. Inviting viewers on a journey filled with laughter, tears, and ultimately, deep reflection, QUEEN OF KNIVES stands out as a significant contribution to independent cinema, memorable for its heartfelt storytelling and the remarkable performances that breathe life into its characters.

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[photo courtesy of FREESTYLE DIGITAL MEDIA]

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