Unveiling Rian Johnson’s ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ – A Captivating Review from LFF 2025

Wake Up Dead Man, Rian Johnson’s latest film, takes us through a captivating journey. The movie, starring Daniel Craig, Josh O’Connor, and Glenn Close, is the third installment in the popular Knives Out series. Unlike its predecessors, this film dives into a world where faith and truth clash in surprising ways.

Johnson has evolved since Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017). His Knives Out films have become sharp commentaries on American society, especially during the Trump era. Audiences have embraced this fresh perspective, where he not only pays homage to classic detective stories but also challenges them. In Wake Up Dead Man, he explores large themes like belief and faith, all wrapped in a cleverly written whodunnit.

For almost half of the film, Benoit Blanc, the master detective, is completely absent from the drama. This choice might seem puzzling, but it allows Johnson to set the stage for a deeper dive into themes of faith—especially within a church setting. The church has often been a backdrop for murder mysteries, yet Johnson places it under a new lens, questioning its role and impact.

A standout character is Father Jud Duplenticy, played by Josh O’Connor. Once a boxer, he wrestles with his past as he navigates his role in the church. He faces challenges from Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, portrayed by Josh Brolin. Wicks spins fiery sermons, urging the congregation to “fight” for their beliefs, often weaponizing their confessions to manipulate them. This dynamic adds tension, even as both characters grapple with their faith’s complexities.

Moreover, the film cleverly critiques right-wing interpretations of Christianity while remaining respectful to those who find solace in faith. This nuance shines through in characters like Martha Delacroix, played by Glenn Close, who represents a different understanding of faith—an understanding that transcends an individual leader.

A fascinating aspect of this installment is how it addresses the contemporary political climate. According to a 2023 Pew Research study, nearly 60% of Americans feel their religious beliefs have been exploited for political gain. Johnson taps into this sentiment, illustrating how faith can serve both as a source of strength and a tool for manipulation.

What makes Wake Up Dead Man compelling is its exploration of faith in a morally ambiguous landscape. Characters inside the church are not merely good or evil; they exist in shades of gray, grappling with their beliefs just as many viewers might. This exploration can resonate with audiences, especially those questioning how faith fits into their lives or current events.

In the end, Wake Up Dead Man might feel like a classic whodunnit, but it’s much more than that. It’s a thoughtful examination of belief and truth, delivered through Johnson’s witty and engaging lens. It’s proof that even within the confines of a traditional genre, there’s room for deeper discussions—discussions that are relevant now more than ever.

For more detailed insights, consider checking out the [Pew Research study on religion and politics](https://www.pewresearch.org). This analysis further enriches our understanding of Johnson’s commentary in the film.

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