See How They Run (2022) Movie Review: A Whodunit with Charm and Wit
See How They Run, released in 2022, is a fresh take on the classic whodunit genre, blending elements of comedy, mystery, and drama. Directed by Tom George, the film is set in 1950s London, offering a delightful period piece packed with wit, humor, and a self-aware homage to the murder mystery tradition. With an ensemble cast led by Sam Rockwell and Saoirse Ronan, See How They Run delivers both a sharp narrative and plenty of laughs, making it a must-watch for fans of classic mystery with a modern twist.
In this review, we’ll cover the plot, performances, and style of the film, as well as where you can stream See How They Run online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Murder Mystery Wrapped in Theatrical Flair
Set in the early 1950s, See How They Run unfolds in the glamorous yet cutthroat world of London’s West End theater scene. The plot revolves around the production of a hit play, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, which becomes embroiled in a real-life murder mystery. When a prominent Hollywood director, Leo Köpernick (played by Adrien Brody), is found dead, the play’s cast and crew become prime suspects.
Enter Inspector Stoppard (played by Sam Rockwell) and his eager, overenthusiastic rookie partner, Constable Stalker (Saoirse Ronan), who are tasked with solving the crime. As they unravel the web of secrets, deceit, and motives, they encounter a colorful array of characters, each with their own agenda and reason to be guilty. The film keeps the audience guessing while injecting plenty of humor, largely through the dynamics between Stoppard’s world-weary cynicism and Stalker’s wide-eyed naivety.
Character Dynamics and Performances
One of the film’s highlights is its strong character work, with Sam Rockwell and Saoirse Ronan playing off each other with impeccable timing. Rockwell’s portrayal of the jaded Inspector Stoppard is nuanced, blending dry wit with the sense of a man who has seen too much, while Ronan’s Constable Stalker brings an earnest and energetic charm to the screen. Her character’s inexperience, combined with her enthusiasm for detective work, provides much of the film’s comedic relief.
Adrien Brody, though his role as the murder victim is short-lived, steals the show in his scenes as Leo Köpernick, the arrogant, hard-drinking director whose demise kicks off the plot. His character’s brashness makes him the perfect murder victim—someone who everyone has a reason to hate.
The supporting cast is equally delightful, with notable performances from David Oyelowo as Mervyn Cocker-Norris, a pompous screenwriter, and Ruth Wilson as Petula Spencer, the savvy theater producer. Each character plays into the classic whodunit archetypes—yet with enough quirk and personality to feel fresh and engaging.
A Love Letter to Classic Whodunits
See How They Run is not just a mystery; it’s a love letter to the genre, filled with playful nods to Agatha Christie’s work and other classic detective stories. The film cleverly deconstructs the whodunit format while celebrating it, employing meta-commentary about the conventions of murder mysteries. From the unreliable narrator to the final reveal, the film revels in its self-awareness without losing the fun of the mystery itself.
Visually, the film is a treat. The production design meticulously recreates 1950s London, with richly detailed sets and costumes that add to the film’s immersive period atmosphere. The cinematography, which at times feels like a nod to Wes Anderson with its symmetrical framing and vibrant color palette, adds a layer of visual charm that complements the film’s witty tone.
Why See How They Run Stands Out
What makes See How They Run particularly appealing is its ability to balance comedy with genuine intrigue. While it is certainly a satire of murder mysteries, it still provides enough twists and red herrings to keep audiences guessing. The chemistry between Rockwell and Ronan is the heart of the film, and their evolving partnership brings warmth to the narrative.
The film also doesn’t overstay its welcome. At just under 100 minutes, it moves at a brisk pace, keeping the mystery tight and the laughs frequent. It’s an ideal movie for those who enjoy lighthearted detective stories or are fans of classic films like Knives Out or Clue.
Streaming Availability: Where to Watch See How They Run Online
If you’re interested in watching See How They Run in the United States, there are a few options available for streaming, rental, and purchase.
1. HBO Max
As of 2023, See How They Run is available to stream on HBO Max, making it accessible for subscribers who want to dive into the charming whodunit. HBO Max offers a range of films, and this one is perfect for fans of period pieces and comedic mysteries.
- Subscription Cost: $9.99/month (Ad-supported), $15.99/month (Ad-free)
- Availability: U.S. only
2. Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase)
For those who don’t have an HBO Max subscription, See How They Run is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Renting or buying the movie offers flexibility for viewers who prefer not to commit to a subscription service.
- Rental Price: Starting at $5.99
- Purchase Price: Starting at $14.99
- Availability: U.S. and other international markets
3. Apple TV
If you’re an Apple user, you can also rent or buy the movie through Apple TV. Like Amazon Prime, Apple TV offers a high-definition viewing experience with the option to rent or own.
- Rental Price: Starting at $5.99
- Purchase Price: Starting at $14.99
- Availability: U.S. only
4. Google Play Movies & TV
For Android users, Google Play Movies & TV offers See How They Run for both rental and purchase. This platform is ideal if you want to watch the movie across devices linked to your Google account.
- Rental Price: Starting at $5.99
- Purchase Price: Starting at $14.99
- Availability: U.S. only
5. YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies is another platform where you can rent or buy See How They Run. This is a convenient option for those who prefer streaming directly on YouTube.
- Rental Price: Starting at $5.99
- Purchase Price: Starting at $14.99
- Availability: U.S. only
Conclusion: A Delightful Murder Mystery with a Modern Twist
See How They Run is a clever, engaging, and visually stunning whodunit that strikes the perfect balance between homage and satire. Its witty script, paired with stellar performances from Sam Rockwell, Saoirse Ronan, and a talented ensemble cast, makes it a standout film of 2022. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of murder mysteries or simply looking for a lighthearted yet intriguing film, See How They Run delivers on all fronts.
With multiple streaming options available, watching See How They Run online has never been easier. Whether you choose HBO Max or prefer renting it through services like Amazon Prime or Google Play, this charming mystery is well worth the watch.
