Review: ‘Murder Made Easy:’ A Smartly Crafted Murder Mystery

Indie film is something that carries a special place in the heart of many; it’s a free form of cinema which brings out the best artistry and creativity in their makers’ craft. Very well known directors, writers, and actors have started their journey through this genre of film. Recently, I have come across an indie movie named “Murder Made Easy,” released in 2017.

The opening starts with a shot of a with a piece of jazz music in the background, where we are introduced to a glamorously dressed man and woman, Joan (Jessica Graham), and Michael (Christopher Soren Kelly). It’s the first anniversary of the death of Joan’s husband, Neil. The connection between two hosts is hazy, as while they seem able to transmit on a certain extent of closeness, there is enough vagueness carried to wonder their status and if they are friends, colleagues, or lovers. 

There is a dinner party, and we get introductions about the meal that will be served and the film’s players, from the polite and professorial Marcus, to the ambitious and straight-talking Angela, to the annoying Cricket. Each attendee will notably be given a token from the estate of Neil. This custom seems well-intentioned and thoughtful to begin with. Yet, these things will soon be used against them, as all four guests have unfairly treated the lamented in one side or another, a fact Joan relishes reminding them of. 

We also see, in before scenes, Joan and Michael alone as a string of guests arrive, allowing us to gain a sense of the dynamic between them, which will shift and change as events unfold. As the story unfolds, we see the protagonists shift from conventional to private setting during the course of their relationship, resulting in some quick-witted dialogue and authentic stress. The plot is dissected into classes manifested with the menu, a card that works as a helpful framing device that serves both a functional and aesthetical purpose. As we approach the final course entitled ‘Just Desserts’ (and what happened next is interesting), revealing more would end up spoiling vital parts.

Jessica Graham and Christopher Soren Kelly in a scene from “Murder Made Easy” (No-Money Enterprises, 2017).

Directed by David Palamaro and co-written by Tim Davis, “Murder Made Easy” sprucely positions dramatis personae that shares much in common with a cast that colonizes the characters. The script is tight with witty dialogue and darkly comic writing. It hops swiftly from one reveal to another, leaving little time or opportunity to question what transpires, nor what twists and turns help to make it eccentric and unforeseeable. 

The array of artistry includes bluestocking, dramatist, actors, and new wavers. This works ideally with the attenuate portrayal, which has the different cast extract colorfully upon their different inclination. Budget is always an issue when it comes to an indie cinema, but with “Murder Made Easy,” Palamaro nailed it with with the help of supporting cinematographer Sherri Kauk, who shoots this movie fantastically despite a film that revolves mostly around one area of the house. With long shots and a constant flowing camera—where he captured all and didn’t miss any cast performance—the frames are on DSLR, which is exquisitely filmic.

The film is more about the dramatis personae than the modus operandi of their passing. Leads Christopher Soren Kelly and Jessica Graham—and the entire cast—are committed to their roles with highbrow reconnaissance; still, the tensity is sustained by possessing the exertion straight to a small apartment. The merger room/living room and kitchen/dining area utilized as the mainframe with a few scenes framed in upstairs bedrooms.  The plot revolves around the characters that are soaked in their role; it’s mirthful and twitchy.

“Murder Made Easy” is a unique film, more than your regular murder mystery; it’s something pleasant for the thriller loved and non-lover. Views will have enough moments of excitement with suspense. It strikes all the boxes for an excellent watch, from directing to the performance of the cast. It’s an underrated gem that needs viewers’ attention; it won the ‘Indie Spirit Award’ in 2017. You can catch this on Amazon Prime.