It has been a while since I watch randomly a movie that blows me away but Knox Goes Away is a Surprise. Initially, I thought, from the IMDB review that it was "a hit-man who gets the chance to redeem himself while battling dementia," a theme I was dubious of given the abundance of refuse produced by Hollywood these days. But because the movie is starring and directed by Michael Keaton, who I've been a big fan of forever.
Without giving any spoilers or telling too much to ruin the surprises, this story unfolds over seven twisting weeks and begins as hitman John Knox (Keaton) is diagnosed with a rapidly evolving form of dementia. Unconventional and carefully detailed. You will sense the quiet deliberation in Knox as he battles week by week, the rapid decline of his recall before his time runs out. It is all about saying farewell to the loved ones and putting his life in order.
Knox Goes Away is suspenseful, intriguing, and unpredictable, and Keaton is at his absolute best with this exemplary performance. Hat's off to Al Pacino for his supporting role as the only person who not only can help Knox pull off this plan but is the only person who can be trusted to do what needs to be done, despite his constant, "You know I am a thief" warning. Normally, I would tell you something like, "This is 94 minutes you'll never get back," but Knox Goes Away is worth every second of the 94 minutes you'll spend watching. Don't miss this one!