Benoit Blanc is back — and this time, the stakes are higher than ever. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, the third chapter in Rian Johnson’s sharp-witted whodunit series, is officially set to debut on Netflix in fall 2025. With a stacked cast, a darker tone, and cryptic teasers already stirring fan speculation, this could be the most intense entry yet in the modern murder mystery franchise.
Benoit Blanc Returns for His “Most Dangerous Case Yet”
Daniel Craig once again dons the southern drawl and signature linen suits of Benoit Blanc, the eccentric detective who has become a fan-favorite since Knives Out (2019). According to Johnson and Netflix, this time Blanc will be “faced with a new, most dangerous case,” suggesting the story may veer into riskier, even deadlier territory than the previous two films.
The title, Wake Up Dead Man, is a reference to the 1997 U2 song of the same name — and it’s more than just stylistic flair. Johnson has hinted that this entry will embrace a darker, more existential tone, possibly dipping into religious or spiritual territory. A first-look image shows Craig’s Blanc standing alongside Josh O’Connor in a dimly lit church, a setting that feels more somber than the sun-drenched Greek villa of Glass Onion.
A Murderer’s Row of Talent Joins the Mystery
As with previous films, the new mystery is matched by a new ensemble of suspects, witnesses, and red herrings. The confirmed cast includes:
- Josh O’Connor (Challengers)
- Glenn Close (Fatal Attraction)
- Josh Brolin (Dune, Avengers)
- Mila Kunis (Luckiest Girl Alive)
- Jeremy Renner (who was name-dropped in Glass Onion, now part of the story)
- Kerry Washington
- Andrew Scott (Fleabag, Ripley)
- Cailee Spaeny (Priscilla)
- Daryl McCormack (Good Luck to You, Leo Grande)
- Thomas Haden Church
This marks one of the most eclectic and star-packed casts yet for the franchise — and if history is any guide, every one of them could be a suspect.
Filming, Setting, and What to Expect
Filming wrapped in London between June and August 2024, though details about the plot and setting are being kept tightly under wraps. However, the return to a colder, possibly more gothic atmosphere — after the bright, satirical tone of Glass Onion — suggests a shift in direction. Johnson has stated that each film in the series is meant to feel unique in style, genre, and setting, while retaining Blanc as the throughline.
Given the church imagery and U2-inspired title, some fans are speculating this could involve themes of mortality, morality, and institutional secrets — perhaps a murder among clergy or in a deeply religious community.
Will It Have a Theatrical Release?
While Glass Onion received a limited theatrical release before hitting Netflix, there’s been no official word yet if Wake Up Dead Man will follow suit. However, given the growing trend of Netflix films playing in select theaters (and the awards push that comes with it), it’s likely we’ll see Blanc on the big screen again — at least briefly — before the streaming premiere.
Is This the End of the Trilogy?
Johnson originally signed a two-film deal with Netflix after Knives Out, which included Glass Onion and now Wake Up Dead Man. However, he’s already expressed interest in continuing the franchise beyond a trilogy, as long as he has fresh ideas and Craig is willing to return. Given the sustained popularity of Benoit Blanc and the format’s flexibility, Wake Up Dead Man may not be the end — just the next twist in an evolving mystery saga.
If you’re a fan of classic murder mysteries with a modern twist, this fall 2025 release is one to watch closely. Whether it’s a locked-room murder, a seedy church secret, or another scathing social satire wrapped in death and deduction, Rian Johnson’s next act has all the ingredients for another genre-defining hit.
Key Takeaways
- “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” will be released on Netflix in Fall 2025, marking the third film in the popular detective series.
- Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc, joined by a new ensemble cast including Andrew Scott, Kerry Washington, and Mila Kunis.
- The film is described as Blanc’s “most dangerous case yet,” suggesting higher stakes than previous installments in the mystery series.
Overview of ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” is the third installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed Knives Out film series. The mystery drama stars Daniel Craig, who returns as the brilliant Southern detective Benoit Blanc.
Netflix will distribute this standalone sequel, following the success of “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” released in 2022. The film continues Johnson’s tradition of crafting intricate whodunit narratives with fresh settings and characters surrounding Blanc’s detective work.
While plot details remain sparse, the film is described as Benoit Blanc’s “most dangerous case yet.” The title suggests a darker tone than previous entries, potentially exploring more serious themes alongside the series’ signature wit.
The film appears to maintain the franchise’s genre-blending approach, being categorized as a drama, comedy, thriller, and mystery. Netflix promotional materials have described the upcoming movie as “offbeat, witty, and dark.”
Rian Johnson continues his role as both writer and director, maintaining creative control over the Knives Out universe he created. Johnson previously shared a snapshot from filming, giving fans a brief glimpse of the production.
Unlike the first two films which featured ensemble casts of suspects, little information has been released about supporting characters or additional cast members beyond Craig. The film is currently in production and scheduled for release in the second half of 2025.
Release Information
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery continues the popular detective franchise with a Fall 2025 release on Netflix. The streaming giant has confirmed Daniel Craig will return as detective Benoit Blanc in what’s described as his most dangerous case yet.
Release Date and Distribution
Netflix has officially announced that “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” will premiere in Fall 2025. This third installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed murder mystery franchise will be distributed exclusively on the streaming platform, following the pattern established with “Glass Onion.”
The film is part of Netflix’s broader 2025 film slate announcement, which includes several other high-profile releases. Unlike the first Knives Out film which had a traditional theatrical release, this third entry continues the streaming-first approach that began with Glass Onion.
The Fall 2025 window suggests Netflix is positioning the film as a potential awards contender, similar to how they’ve handled other prestige releases in the past.
Promotional Teasers and Trailers
Netflix has begun its marketing campaign with the release of the first official photo featuring Daniel Craig alongside Josh O’Connor. The image offers fans their first glimpse at the film’s visual style and hints at the characters’ dynamic.
As of February 2025, no full trailer has been released yet. Based on Netflix’s typical promotional timeline, viewers can expect a teaser trailer approximately 4-6 months before release, with a full trailer following 2-3 months prior to the premiere date.
The title “Wake Up Dead Man” references a 1997 U2 song from their album “Pop,” continuing the musical inspiration pattern established by previous entries. “Knives Out” took its name from a Radiohead song, while “Glass Onion” referenced a Beatles track.
The promotional materials are likely to focus on Craig’s return as Benoit Blanc and the new ensemble cast, following the franchise’s tradition of gathering high-profile actors for each mystery.
Cast and Characters
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” features an impressive ensemble cast led by Daniel Craig returning as detective Benoit Blanc. The film brings together both familiar faces from the franchise and exciting new additions to create another compelling mystery.
Returning Cast Members
Daniel Craig reprises his role as master detective Benoit Blanc, the only character to appear in all three Knives Out films. Craig’s portrayal of the southern detective with his distinctive accent and sharp deductive skills has become a signature element of the franchise.
Blanc will once again find himself investigating a dangerous new case, which Netflix has described as his “most dangerous case yet.” While plot details remain tightly guarded, the theatrical success of the previous installments suggests Craig’s detective will face his most challenging mystery to date.
The production team has maintained continuity behind the camera as well, with Rian Johnson returning as both writer and director for this third installment in his mystery series.
New Additions to the Cast
The third Knives Out film boasts an impressive lineup of new cast members. The ensemble includes Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, and Andrew Scott, creating one of the most star-studded casts of 2025.
Josh O’Connor joins the cast in what appears to be a priest role, based on early promotional images that have generated significant buzz online. Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church round out the supporting cast.
The film continues the franchise tradition of assembling an entirely new group of suspects and characters for each mystery. This approach allows Johnson to explore different themes and settings while maintaining the core detective elements that fans enjoy.
Each actor brings their unique talents to the production, promising another intriguing mystery filled with twists, suspicion, and the sharp wit the series is known for.
Production Details
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery continues the tradition of high-quality production values established in the previous films. Director Rian Johnson has reunited with longtime producer Ram Bergman to bring the third installment of detective Benoit Blanc’s adventures to life.
Filming Locations
Principal photography for Wake Up Dead Man began in early 2024. Rian Johnson shared a snapshot from the set during filming, giving fans their first glimpse of Daniel Craig returning as detective Benoit Blanc. The production primarily took place in London, marking a shift from the previous films’ settings.
Several iconic London landmarks appear in the film, creating a distinctive British backdrop for Blanc’s latest case. Unlike the Mediterranean villa in Knives Out or the Greek-inspired mansion in Glass Onion, the London setting brings a more urban atmosphere to the mystery.
The production team also utilized studio facilities in the UK for interior scenes. This choice of location suggests the mystery may have connections to British high society or the international community in London.
Budget and Financing
Netflix invested significantly in continuing the Knives Out franchise, having previously paid $450 million to secure the rights for two sequels following the original film. This deal included both Glass Onion and Wake Up Dead Man, demonstrating the streaming platform’s commitment to the series.
Ram Bergman, Johnson’s longtime producing partner, returned to oversee the financial aspects of the production. The exact budget figures haven’t been publicly disclosed, but industry analysts estimate it exceeds the $40 million spent on Glass Onion.
The substantial investment reflects Netflix’s confidence in the franchise’s popularity and commercial viability. The streaming service has positioned the Knives Out series as one of its premier film properties, with marketing efforts expected to match the production’s scale.
Cinematic Context
Wake Up Dead Man enters the mystery genre as the third installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed Knives Out series, continuing a modern reinvention of whodunnit storytelling that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Position Within the Knives Out Franchise
Wake Up Dead Man follows the critically acclaimed Knives Out (2019) and Glass Onion (2022), completing a trilogy of Detective Benoit Blanc investigations. Daniel Craig returns as the eccentric detective with his distinctive Southern drawl, a character that has become his post-James Bond signature role.
Unlike many film series that maintain cast continuity, the Knives Out franchise features an anthology format. Each film presents Blanc with an entirely new cast of suspects and an original mystery to solve.
This third installment continues the franchise’s tradition of attracting A-list talent, with Andrew Scott, Kerry Washington, Josh O’Connor, Mila Kunis, and Jeremy Renner joining the ensemble. Previous films featured Ana de Armas, Chris Evans, and Edward Norton among others.
Comparison to Other Whodunnit Films
The Knives Out series represents a modern revival of the classic whodunnit genre pioneered by Agatha Christie adaptations like Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile. Johnson’s approach distinguishes itself through contemporary settings, social commentary, and subversive humor.
Unlike traditional mysteries that often focus solely on puzzle-solving, the Knives Out films blend genres—incorporating comedy, drama, and social satire. This multi-layered approach has helped the franchise appeal to broader audiences beyond mystery enthusiasts.
The series also differs from other modern mystery films by embracing theatrical storytelling rather than gritty realism. Bold production design, memorable characters, and intricate plot mechanics create a distinctive visual style.
Wake Up Dead Man’s title, drawn from a 1997 U2 song, continues Johnson’s pattern of musical references after Glass Onion (The Beatles) and Knives Out (Radiohead).
Creative Team
The “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” production team brings together established collaborators who have helped shape the unique style and success of the franchise. The creative vision stems from a tight-knit group of professionals who have worked together across multiple projects.
Director Rian Johnson’s Vision
Rian Johnson returns as both writer and director for the third installment in his successful murder mystery franchise. Johnson has maintained complete creative control over the Knives Out series, crafting intricate mysteries with social commentary woven throughout. His distinct visual style and sharp dialogue have become hallmarks of these films.
The director began filming “Wake Up Dead Man” in 2024, sharing glimpses from production on social media. Johnson’s approach to mystery storytelling continues to evolve with each film while maintaining the core appeal of detective Benoit Blanc solving complex cases.
He has expressed excitement about exploring new themes in this installment while keeping the entertainment value that made previous entries successful.
Producers and Collaborators
Ram Bergman continues his partnership with Johnson as producer on “Wake Up Dead Man.” The two have collaborated extensively throughout their careers, including on “Knives Out,” “Glass Onion,” and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”
The creative team likely includes Nathan Johnson, Rian’s cousin, who has composed the music for the previous Knives Out films as well as many of the director’s other projects. His distinctive musical style has complemented the tense yet playful tone of the mysteries.
Netflix is backing the production as part of its multi-film deal with Johnson and Bergman worth a reported $450 million. This partnership gives the creative team significant resources while allowing them to maintain their artistic vision for the franchise.
Music and Score
Nathan Johnson is set to return as the composer for “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” continuing his collaboration with director Rian Johnson. This marks Nathan’s third time creating the musical landscape for Benoit Blanc’s investigations.
His previous work on the franchise has been well-received by fans and critics alike. The original score from the 2019 “Knives Out” film was released through Cut Narrative Records, while his music for “Glass Onion” was distributed by Netflix Music.
Nathan Johnson’s compositions have become a signature element of the Knives Out series. His music blends classical mystery elements with contemporary sounds that complement the modern take on whodunit stories.
The title “Wake Up Dead Man” shares its name with a U2 song from their 1997 album “Pop.” While no official connection has been confirmed, the title choice has sparked speculation among fans about possible musical influences or thematic resonance.
Film music enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing Nathan Johnson’s new score when “Wake Up Dead Man” premieres on Netflix in the latter half of 2025. His return helps maintain creative continuity across all three films in this critically acclaimed mystery series.
Themes and Genre
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” continues the franchise’s tradition of blending multiple genres while exploring compelling themes. Like its predecessors, the film is primarily a whodunnit mystery with elements of drama and comedy woven throughout.
The title itself, borrowed from a 1997 U2 song, hints at darker themes. Director Rian Johnson mentioned that he had this title in mind for some time, having first encountered the phrase in American folk music.
The Knives Out series has established itself as a modern take on classic murder mysteries. Each film features Daniel Craig’s detective Benoit Blanc solving complex cases with his unique investigative style.
Johnson’s approach to the mystery genre typically includes social commentary and class critique. The previous films examined wealth inequality, privilege, and the moral corruption that often accompanies power.
The series balances its murder mystery elements with sharp humor and dramatic moments. This genre-blending approach has become a signature of the franchise.
While plot details remain under wraps, fans can expect:
- A new ensemble cast surrounding Daniel Craig
- A self-contained mystery with fresh characters
- The return of Johnson’s distinctive visual style
- Commentary on contemporary social issues
The film will likely maintain the tone of a classic whodunnit while adding modern twists and subversions that have made the series popular with both critics and audiences.
Critical Expectations and Pre-Release Buzz
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” has generated significant anticipation among critics and fans alike. As the third installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed mystery franchise, expectations are particularly high following the success of “Knives Out” and “Glass Onion.”
Industry analysts predict the film will continue Johnson’s streak of blending sharp social commentary with entertaining whodunit elements. Daniel Craig’s return as detective Benoit Blanc remains one of the most discussed aspects of the upcoming release.
Netflix’s reported $450 million investment in the franchise rights underscores their confidence in the series’ continued appeal. This substantial financial commitment has raised the stakes for the third film’s performance.
The title “Wake Up Dead Man” references a 1997 U2 song from their album “Pop,” following Johnson’s tradition of music-inspired film titles. Previous installments drew their names from Radiohead and Beatles songs respectively.
Production Timeline:
- Announcement of title: 2023
- Filming period: 2024
- Release window: Fall 2025
- Distribution: Netflix exclusive
Critics are especially curious about how Johnson will innovate within the murder mystery format for a third time. His ability to subvert genre expectations while honoring classic mystery traditions has become a hallmark of the series.
The casting announcements have been carefully guarded, with rumors suggesting Johnson may assemble his most diverse ensemble yet. Fan speculation runs rampant about possible returning actors or surprising new additions to the Blanc universe.
Johnson’s directorial choices are being closely watched by filmmakers like Guillermo Del Toro, who has expressed admiration for the way the series balances commercial appeal with artistic integrity.
Cultural Impact and Anticipation
The “Knives Out” franchise has established itself as a modern cultural phenomenon, revitalizing the whodunnit genre for contemporary audiences. With Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc character becoming an iconic detective figure, fans eagerly await his return in “Wake Up Dead Man.”
Social media platforms have been buzzing with speculation since Netflix announced the fall 2025 release window. The previous films’ success has created a dedicated fanbase that actively develops theories about the new mystery months before release.
Director Rian Johnson’s distinctive approach to the mystery genre has influenced television and film productions. His subversion of traditional whodunnit tropes has sparked renewed interest in classic mystery storytelling while adding modern twists.
The star-studded cast for “Wake Up Dead Man” has generated significant excitement:
- Andrew Scott
- Kerry Washington
- Josh O’Connor
- Cailee Spaeny
- Mila Kunis
- Jeremy Renner
This ensemble continues the franchise tradition of assembling acclaimed actors, further cementing its prestige status in Hollywood.
Fan communities have already begun developing intricate theories based on the limited information available. These theories range from plot predictions to character motivations, demonstrating the intellectual engagement the series inspires.
The franchise’s impact extends beyond entertainment into fashion, dialogue references, and even mystery-themed parties. The distinctive visual style and memorable characters have made “Knives Out” a reference point in popular culture.
Potential for Future Installments
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” represents the third film in Rian Johnson’s murder mystery series, following “Knives Out” (2019) and “Glass Onion” (2022). This continued expansion suggests strong potential for additional sequels beyond the 2025 release.
Netflix has shown significant investment in the franchise. The streaming giant paid approximately $450 million for the rights to two sequels after the success of the original film, demonstrating their confidence in the series’ longevity.
Director Rian Johnson has expressed interest in continuing to create Benoit Blanc mysteries as long as audiences remain engaged. He views each film as a standalone story with unique settings, characters, and murder scenarios.
The anthology format provides numerous advantages for future installments:
- Fresh narratives: Each film introduces new characters and settings
- Casting flexibility: No long-term commitments required from actors
- Creative freedom: Johnson can explore different mystery subgenres
Daniel Craig’s enthusiasm for the character of Detective Benoit Blanc also bodes well for future films. Unlike his reported fatigue with the James Bond franchise, Craig appears to genuinely enjoy playing the southern detective.
The murder mystery genre itself offers endless possibilities. With each film, Johnson has crafted distinctive mysteries that pay homage to classic whodunits while adding contemporary elements.
Market performance will ultimately determine the franchise’s future. If “Wake Up Dead Man” performs well for Netflix, additional sequels seem likely, potentially establishing Benoit Blanc as this generation’s Hercule Poirot or Sherlock Holmes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Netflix has officially set “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” for a Fall 2025 release window with a star-studded cast and the return of fan-favorite detective Benoit Blanc.
When is the official release date for the next Knives Out sequel on Netflix?
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” is scheduled for release in Fall 2025. Netflix has announced this release window rather than providing a specific date at this time.
This timeline places the third installment approximately three years after “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” which debuted in 2022.
The Fall 2025 release suggests Netflix may position the film for awards consideration, similar to the strategy used for previous entries in the franchise.
What can viewers expect from the plot of the latest installment in the Knives Out series?
Specific plot details for “Wake Up Dead Man” remain largely under wraps. The film will likely follow detective Benoit Blanc tackling a new murder mystery with an entirely fresh setting and characters.
Director Rian Johnson has consistently delivered intricate mysteries with unexpected twists and social commentary in previous installments. This approach will likely continue in the third film.
The first promotional image released by Netflix shows a darker tone, potentially indicating a more serious mystery compared to the somewhat lighter approach of “Glass Onion.”
Will Daniel Craig reprise his role in the upcoming Knives Out mystery movie?
Yes, Daniel Craig will return as detective Benoit Blanc in “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.” His character remains the anchoring element of the franchise.
Craig’s distinctive portrayal of the Southern detective with his unique accent and analytical mind has become iconic for the series. His performance in the first two films received significant critical acclaim.
How does ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ connect to the previous films?
“Wake Up Dead Man” follows the anthology format established by the previous films, where each movie features a standalone mystery. The connecting thread is Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc character.
The “Knives Out” series intentionally avoids direct narrative connections between films. Each entry presents a distinct mystery, setting, and cast of suspects for Blanc to investigate.
Rian Johnson has emphasized his desire for each film to have its own unique style and tone while maintaining the core murder-mystery framework.
Can fans expect to see returning characters in ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’?
Apart from Benoit Blanc, “Wake Up Dead Man” will feature an entirely new ensemble cast. The series has established a pattern of introducing fresh characters with each new mystery.
The confirmed cast includes Andrew Scott, Kerry Washington, Josh O’Connor, Cailee Spaeny, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, and Glenn Close. None of these actors appeared in the previous two films.
This approach allows each film to exist as its own distinct mystery while maintaining the detective as the franchise’s consistent element.
What are the viewing options for the latest Knives Out film upon its release?
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” will be available exclusively on Netflix. The streaming service acquired the rights to the second and third films in the franchise for approximately $450 million.
Similar to “Glass Onion,” the film may receive a limited theatrical release before streaming. This strategy would allow the film to qualify for awards consideration.
Netflix subscribers will be able to watch the film without additional fees once it arrives on the platform in Fall 2025.
