Key Takeaways
- Glen Powell stars as an ambitious outsider willing to do anything — including murder — to secure a $28 billion inheritance.
- A24’s How to Make a Killing releases February 20, 2026, featuring Margaret Qualley, Ed Harris, Jessica Henwick, and more.
- The film is inspired by the 1949 British classic Kind Hearts and Coronets.
- Director John Patton Ford’s script first landed on the Black List in 2014 under the title Rothchild.
- Powell hints a new title may debut soon as anticipation builds within the industry.
A24 is gearing up to deliver a stylish, darkly comedic thriller with How to Make a Killing, starring Glen Powell as a man determined to reclaim his place in an ultra-wealthy family — no matter the cost. The newly released trailer teases a bold mix of crime, satire, and razor-sharp character work that’s sure to grab audiences, especially fans of prestige thrillers and elevated genre storytelling.
The film, written and directed by John Patton Ford (Emily the Criminal), hits theaters February 20, 2026. With a powerhouse cast featuring Margaret Qualley, Ed Harris, Bill Camp, Topher Grace, Zach Woods, and Jessica Henwick, the project is already shaping up to be one of A24’s buzziest 2026 releases.
A Twisted Path to a $28 Billion Fortune
Inspired by director Robert Hamer’s 1949 classic Kind Hearts and Coronets, How to Make a Killing follows Becket Redfellow (Powell), a disgraced member of a billionaire family who is cut out of the dynasty’s wealth. Instead of accepting his fate, he crafts a violent and calculated strategy to eliminate the seven family members standing between him and a staggering $28 billion inheritance.
The trailer opens with Powell’s character narrating over stylized, sharp visuals:
“There were seven of them — seven rich pricks between myself and $28 billion. If I were to prune a few branches of the family tree…”
It’s a chilling setup that captures the film’s tone: wickedly funny, morally twisted, and stylishly dangerous.
A24 Delivers Another Elevated Thriller
How to Make a Killing represents A24’s continued push into high-concept thrillers with prestige casts. The project blends:
- Dark humor
- Stylish violence
- Family drama
- Satire of extreme wealth
For entertainment professionals, it’s a standout example of how modern thrillers are evolving — tapping into themes of class, entitlement, and ambition while offering roles that allow actors to explore complex characters.
A Script Years in the Making
John Patton Ford’s screenplay originally appeared on the 2014 Black List under the title Rothchild, signaling strong industry interest long before cameras rolled. StudioCanal financed and produced the film, with Graham Broadbent, Peter Czernin, and Adam Friedlander serving as producers.
The film also underwent a title change. Powell previously revealed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that a new name was coming soon — though the official trailer confirms How to Make a Killing as the current release title.
“The movie is fantastic, and John Patton Ford is a great filmmaker. I can’t wait for people to see it,” Powell said, expressing excitement for the project’s rollout.
Powell is currently starring in the Paramount action film The Running Man, adding to a prolific year for the rising A-list actor.
Why This Film Matters to Entertainment Professionals
How to Make a Killing stands out as:
- A character-driven thriller ideal for awards season buzz
- A showcase of Glen Powell’s versatility as he transitions into darker lead roles
- A reminder of A24’s influence in shaping the modern indie-thriller landscape
- A potential case study for actors and filmmakers interested in morally complex storytelling
With its blend of satire, social commentary, and genre thrills, the film is poised to resonate with audiences who crave smart, boundary-pushing cinema.
