Daniel Craig is back as the clever detective Benoit Blanc in Netflix’s new film, Wake Up Dead Man, a part of the Knives Out series. This time, the story revolves around Father Jud Duplenticy, portrayed by Josh O’Connor. He’s a young priest sent to a tough parish led by the harsh Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, played by Josh Brolin. Jud faces bullying from Wicks and struggles to connect with a dwindling congregation. When Jud is found dead from a knife wound, everyone becomes a suspect, including those closest to him.
The film takes its time with character introductions, delaying the murder for over half an hour. While some viewers may find this pacing frustrating, the strong performances from the ensemble cast, which includes Glenn Close, Andrew Scott, and Kerry Washington, keep things interesting.
Josh O’Connor shines as Father Jud, struggling to find his place amid constant bullying. Craig’s Benoit Blanc is charming as ever, but the film’s real strengths lie in its humor and quirky characters.
Despite some pacing issues, Wake Up Dead Man dives deep into themes of church politics, faith, and hidden greed, especially with the subplot surrounding a hidden fortune linked to Wicks’ grandfather. This inheritance adds a layer of intrigue, making everyone’s motives more suspicious.
According to data from Box Office Mojo, mystery films have seen a rise in popularity recently, with a 35% increase in viewership over the last five years. This trend mirrors a broader audience interest in complex, character-driven narratives. As a result, Wake Up Dead Man fits perfectly into this growing genre.
Ultimately, the film offers dark humor and engaging performances, making it an entertaining watch despite its flaws.
Rating: 7/10. You can check out Wake Up Dead Man now on Netflix.
