Director Rian Johnson has done it again with “Wake Up Dead Man,” the latest entry in the Knives Out series. This gothic murder mystery has hit select theaters in the U.S. and is receiving rave reviews. Fans are already buzzing about how it compares to the previous films, but one thing is clear—it’s a great addition to the Benoit Blanc saga.
As is tradition, Johnson has brought in a brand-new star-studded cast. This time, we see Jeremy Renner, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, and Daryl McCormack among others. Notably, Josh O’Connor plays Jud Duplenticy, a former boxer turned priest, bringing a quirky charm to the role. He describes himself as “young, dumb, and full of Christ,” which adds a touch of humor to the mix.
Daniel Craig returns as the brilliant detective Benoit Blanc, now sporting a graying beard and a more vulnerable outlook on life. Blanc teams up with Jud to crack a locked-room murder that seems impossible to solve.
The vibe of this film sets it apart from the first two installments. Where “Knives Out” echoed Agatha Christie, and “Glass Onion” was a vibrant spectacle, “Wake Up Dead Man” has a darker, quieter tone, drawing inspiration from Edgar Allan Poe. The film delves into themes of faith, exploring the complexities of religion, especially within the Catholic Church.
This exploration of faith shapes each character’s interactions and challenges, deepening the mystery at hand. While the film maintains moments of comedy, it also adds suspense, keeping viewers engaged and guessing until the end. The ambitious plot leads to a rewarding climax.
The stunning cinematography deserves a shout-out, too. The lighting plays a crucial role, almost acting as a character itself. Johnson excels in visual storytelling, and this film showcases that talent beautifully, complemented by an immersive orchestral score.
However, not all ensemble characters receive equal attention. For instance, Simone (Cailee Spaeney) could have benefited from more screen time, while Jud’s perspective often takes center stage, sometimes overshadowing Blanc. Fans may crave deeper character development, but each character still resonates in unique ways. Additionally, we get some intriguing insights into Blanc’s backstory, adding layers to his character.
Interestingly, “Wake Up Dead Man” is the last Knives Out movie released under Netflix’s contract. Both Johnson and Craig have expressed a desire to continue the series, hinting at more mysteries to come.
After its theater run, the film will be available to stream on Netflix starting December 12. This series looks set to continue captivating mystery enthusiasts for years to come.
Grade: A
