Holiday Terror Meets Small-Town Secrets

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MOVIE REVIEW
It's a Wonderful Knife
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Genre: Comedy, Horror, Mystery
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 27m
Director(s): Tyler MacIntyre
Writer(s): Michael Kennedy
Cast: Jane Widdop, Jess McLeod, Joel McHale, Katharine Isabelle, William B. Davis, Justin Long, Aiden Howard, Erin Boyes
Where To Watch: available on Shudder, AMC+, and everywhere you rent movies December 1, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Tyler MacIntyre's IT’S A WONDERFUL KNIFE blends the cozy, twinkling lights of the holiday season with the on-the-edge-of-your-seat suspense of a horror. The film revolves around Winnie Carruthers, a character whose depth and complexity are masterfully portrayed by Jane Widdop. Winnie's life takes a turn after a Christmas Eve incident with a murderer, plunging her into a whirlwind year that ends with a desperate wish. This wish sends her spiraling into an alternate reality, upending not just her life but the lives of those around her.

Set against the backdrop of Angel Falls, proudly dubbed the "Christmas Capital of the World," the film contrasts the town's festive charm with a lurking, sinister presence. As the town's mayor and a clandestine real estate mogul, Henry Waters, Justin Long delivers a nuanced performance that adds an intriguing yet slightly underused layer to the narrative. His depiction of Waters blends villainy with a specific charm, elevating the story's dark atmosphere.

IT’S A WONDERFUL KNIFE diverges from the traditional slasher narrative, revealing the antagonist's identity early on and shifting focus to Winnie's internal battle and her determination to face her demons. This innovative narrative choice, while refreshing, makes you wonder what the rest of the story is. I will admit that I thought the fun was over, but there was still an exciting twist around the corner.

Yet, IT’S A WONDERFUL KNIFE still shines in several aspects. The relationship between Winnie and Jess McLeod's character, Bernie Simon, introduces depth to the plot. I would have liked to have seen a deeper dive into some of the rest of the cast, though I think there could be so much more to this story, potentially even a franchise of its own.

One of the film's more intriguing features is its allusion to the holiday classic IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, using a similar concept to delve into the impacts of absence and existence. I love that it pays homage to the film without tarnishing the classic movie; there are some moments where I could have seen it go entirely off course. "Will you be my Clarence?" is one of my favorite lines I’ve seen in a film this year.

IT’S A WONDERFUL KNIFE offers an unconventional mix of holiday joy and horror, crafting a distinct experience. Long’s performance as the slick mayor is particularly noteworthy, injecting vitality into the film. Despite this, the movie struggles with maintaining a consistent pace, developing its characters thoroughly, and capitalizing on its inventive premise. While appealing to those seeking an offbeat holiday film, IT’S A WONDERFUL KNIFE may fall short of making a lasting impression in the horror genre.

IT’S A WONDERFUL KNIFE does pose compelling questions about the nature of our existence and the impact of our choices, setting it apart from typical horror fare. For those accustomed to traditional slasher films, this movie might feel like a deviation from the expected path – for better or worse. Its daring fusion of festive warmth and chilling horror elements demonstrates a commendable effort to explore new territory, even if it doesn’t consistently deliver on its promise.

In conclusion, IT’S A WONDERFUL KNIFE is a film that straddles the line between two distinct genres, creating a unique experience for viewers. Its ambition is praiseworthy, and while it doesn’t fully realize its potential, it offers a glimpse into the possibilities that emerge when filmmakers venture beyond conventional storytelling boundaries. I also must point out that many people are too critical of a fun, meta-holiday horror film.

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[photo courtesy of SHUDDER, AMC+]