Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (2025) - Film Review

      Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, 2025.

      Directed by Rian Johnson.

      Starring Daniel Craig, Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church.

      **SYNOPSIS**

      Benoit Blanc is back to tackle his most perilous case to date. Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig returned to the Toronto International Film Festival for the latest chapter of Benoit Blanc’s journey, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. This new entry, featuring a cast led by Craig and Josh O’Connor, may not resonate as strongly as its predecessors, but the gothic elements and thematic depth give it distinct appeal. With Johnson's mix of humor and storytelling, this film stands as a commendable addition to Blanc's captivating investigations.

      Wake Up Dead Man focuses on a young priest in a small town facing off against a hostile priest and his devoted congregation. When a seemingly unfeasible murder occurs on church property, Benoit Blanc is summoned to assist in the inquiry, unraveling numerous twists and the secrets held by the parish.

      The film presents an intriguing backdrop for Blanc as he employs logic and rationale in his investigation, yet encounters various individuals whose faith and beliefs challenge that logic. Despite this, the dynamic between Blanc and O’Connor’s Father Judd creates an engaging dialogue as they work to solve the bizarre murder. The characters do not clash like a traditional buddy cop duo, but their collaboration reveals new facets of Blanc’s character alongside Judd’s positive outlook and faith.

      Johnson effectively explores themes of faith, particularly in today’s context where traditional religious institutions are becoming more inclusive and understanding. This ideological contrast unfolds between O’Connor’s Judd and Josh Brolin’s fiery preacher, who staunchly opposes modernity. The religious themes are employed to explore how both Judd and Blanc confront their beliefs, facilitating Judd's character growth, which Johnson adeptly connects to contemporary societal challenges, including rising cynicism and volatility in public opinion.

      The ensemble cast delivers performances that invite both laughter and empathy, with Glenn Close as a passionate church member, Kerry Washington portraying a disgruntled mother, and Jeremy Renner as a sorrowful divorcee. Close stands out with her impeccable comedic timing, while Brolin captures the hypocrisy found in both selfish individuals and institutions. Renner provides humor as well, while Daryl McCormack takes on a rather unsavory role, with Washington often resonating with the audience through her frustration with her surroundings.

      The film's pacing is well-executed, and the incorporation of gothic themes sets Wake Up Dead Man apart from Knives Out and Glass Onion. Johnson experiments with lighting more than in prior films, utilizing angelic silhouettes in various scenes. While there are still ample comedic moments, the overall tone is more serious, somber, and contemplative. However, Johnson leans too heavily on exposition this time, often telling rather than showing, and providing lengthy explanations, even though his wordplay remains effective in creating humor.

      Johnson successfully imbues Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery with a unique voice and central themes, while Craig, O’Connor, and the rest of the cast deliver remarkable performances. Judd’s character growth is relatable, even for those who may not identify as religious, reflecting a broader belief in the kindness of others and our duty to cultivate a better environment. While it may not be the strongest entry in the Knives Out trilogy, it remains thoroughly engaging and might just be Johnson's most personal film in the series thus far.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is available for viewing at the Toronto International Film Festival and will premiere on Netflix on December 12th.

      Ricky Church – Follow me on Bluesky for more movie news and discussions.