The Knife - released in theaters in 2025 - tells the story of a breaking and entering in an African-American family's home, and how the police investigation unfolds after the intruder is knocked unconscious on the floor.
Let me be very clear: this movie is extremely racist, and I say that to justify how the film's story deliberately showcases pure racism. This African-American couple is dehumanized, interrogated, and treated like absolute garbage by a white detective, a squad of white police officers, white forensics workers, white investigators, and even an Asian police officer who follows along with their behavior.
The detective even lies into her tape recorder, falsely stating that the mother was present while she interrogated the couple's child. That moment alone shows you what this movie is saying about abuse of authority. I'm trying not to spoil too much because I do think this movie should be seen in theaters - even though, honestly, it feels like something that could've been released straight to HBO Max. The theater experience just adds more intensity to it.
The entire story takes this innocent family, who were simply protecting themselves from a white woman on drugs who broke into their home, and flips the narrative to make the Black family the suspects. It's a brutal, unflinching look at how society often works and how people in positions of power abuse that power.
One scene that really broke my heart - without giving too much away - is when the husband tries to enter his own home because his wife and kids are being dehumanized inside. Despite the police knowing he's unarmed (and having been on the scene for hours), they all pull their guns on him just to flex their authority. And this is a man who had been up until 1 AM working on home renovations, checking on his kids, and getting ready for his 3 AM shift.
As for the film itself - it's good. Really good. The cast is fantastic, the acting is strong, and the script is tight. The direction is impressive too; the whole story takes place inside the home, keeping you locked in and emotionally invested. But that detective? Somebody needs to take her badge. Once you lie to interrogate a child, you lose all respect from me.
I recommend it. It's a hard watch, but a powerful one. Whether you see it in a theater or at home, pay attention - because this story will stick with you.
