Detective Benoit Blanc is returning with his most distinctive drawl and impressive deductive skills in “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.” The third installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed murder mystery series will arrive exclusively on Netflix in Fall 2025. This new chapter promises to present the Southern-fried sleuth with his most dangerous case yet, raising the stakes beyond what fans experienced in the previous two films.
Netflix recently released a first look at Daniel Craig reprising his role as the celebrated detective. While plot details remain tightly under wraps, the film’s ominous title suggests a darker tone than its predecessors. The “Knives Out” franchise has established itself as a modern take on classic whodunits, with each film featuring an ensemble cast of suspects surrounding Blanc as he unravels increasingly complex mysteries.
Production on “Wake Up Dead Man” has been underway, with writer-director Rian Johnson sharing glimpses from filming. This third installment continues the partnership between Johnson and Netflix, following the streaming service’s acquisition of the rights to two Knives Out sequels in a landmark deal worth reportedly $450 million.
Benoit Blanc Returns in His Most Dangerous Case Yet
The third entry in Rian Johnson’s mystery saga, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, is shaping up to be a darker, more dangerous chapter in the detective series. Scheduled for release on Netflix in fall 2025, the film will once again see Daniel Craig reprise his role as Benoit Blanc, the Southern gentleman sleuth with a flair for peeling back layers of lies. But this time, the stakes—and tone—are higher than ever before.
A Haunting First Look Sets the Stage
The first official image from the film shows Benoit Blanc and a new character (played by Josh O’Connor) inside a shadowy, old-world church. The choice of setting isn’t subtle—this isn’t a sunny island resort or an opulent mansion. It’s austere, solemn, and possibly even spiritual. The title “Wake Up Dead Man,” pulled from a haunting U2 song, hints at themes of mortality, resurrection, and the metaphysical. This is a murder mystery that might be wrestling with more than just who did it—it could be asking why death comes in the first place.
A Cast Packed with Power and Intrigue
True to form, Johnson has assembled a jaw-dropping ensemble cast that rivals, if not surpasses, the previous two films. Alongside Craig and O’Connor, the film features:
- Glenn Close
- Josh Brolin
- Mila Kunis
- Jeremy Renner
- Kerry Washington
- Andrew Scott
- Cailee Spaeny
- Daryl McCormack
- Thomas Haden Church
Many of these actors are no strangers to playing morally gray characters or navigating ensemble dramas. Andrew Scott’s performance in psychological thrillers and Jeremy Renner’s intense, conflicted roles suggest this cast isn’t just here for glamorous red herrings. This story is going to dig deep—and hurt.
Behind the Camera: A Bold New Direction
Filming took place in London between June and August of 2024. While the production moved quickly, it wasn’t without its hurdles. Glenn Close contracted both COVID-19 and RSV during the shoot, delaying some of her scenes. Still, her commitment to returning to set and completing her role speaks volumes about the importance of her character in the film’s intricate plot.
Rian Johnson has hinted that this is Blanc’s “most dangerous case yet,” and from the production design to the casting to the title, everything points to a more somber, high-stakes mystery. Johnson’s love for the detective genre continues to evolve, and this third installment appears to be a culmination of that growth—less cozy mystery, more existential thriller.
Netflix and the Theatrical Push
Though the film is set to debut on Netflix, Daniel Craig himself has voiced interest in giving the movie a wider theatrical run. The streaming giant previously gave Glass Onion a limited one-week theatrical release, but that strategy left money and momentum on the table. With Craig and fans both wanting to experience Blanc’s next case on the big screen, there’s increasing pressure on Netflix to rethink their distribution strategy for what could be one of their biggest titles of 2025.
A Murder Mystery With Spiritual Weight?
With a title like Wake Up Dead Man, there’s an underlying suggestion that this case might touch on elements far beyond the earthly. Is the murder tied to a religious institution? Are cults or secret societies involved? Is the killer someone trying to make a statement beyond life and death? Rian Johnson is known for his genre subversions, and this could be his most ambitious attempt yet—blending gothic horror and classic detective fiction into something wholly original.
What We’re Expecting
- A deeply layered mystery with serious emotional and possibly spiritual undercurrents
- A heavier tone that explores mortality and the nature of justice
- Craig’s most emotionally invested Benoit Blanc performance yet
- Surprising twists that go beyond “whodunit” and into “why they did it”
If Knives Out was clever and Glass Onion was flashy, then Wake Up Dead Man looks to be the soul of the trilogy. It’s shaping up to be a meditation on death and truth that just happens to come wrapped in a killer mystery.
Key Takeaways
- “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” will premiere on Netflix in Fall 2025, featuring Daniel Craig’s return as detective Benoit Blanc.
- The third installment is being marketed as Blanc’s most dangerous case yet, suggesting higher stakes than previous films.
- Director Rian Johnson continues to expand his modern whodunit franchise with a potentially darker tone while maintaining the series’ signature mystery elements.
Background of ‘Wake Up Dead Man’
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” continues the legacy of Rian Johnson’s acclaimed whodunit series while taking its title from a 1997 U2 song from their album Pop.
Movie Franchise History
The Knives Out franchise began in 2019 with the release of the original film featuring Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc. This modern murder mystery earned critical acclaim and box office success, grossing over $300 million worldwide on a modest $40 million budget.
Following this triumph, Netflix acquired the rights to two sequels in a landmark deal reportedly worth $450 million. This acquisition demonstrated the streaming giant’s confidence in Johnson’s vision and Craig’s portrayal of the charismatic detective.
The franchise has distinguished itself by combining classic murder mystery elements with contemporary social commentary. Each film features an entirely new cast and setting, with Blanc as the connecting thread across the stories.
Benoit Blanc’s Character Evolution
Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc has become an iconic detective character, known for his distinctive Southern drawl and analytical mind. His characterization draws inspiration from classic literary detectives while maintaining a fresh, modern sensibility.
In the original “Knives Out,” Blanc appeared somewhat mysterious, with viewers learning little about his personal life. The sequel, “Glass Onion,” revealed more dimensions to his character, including glimpses of his home life and personal relationships.
“Wake Up Dead Man” promises to challenge Blanc with what’s being described as “his most dangerous case yet.” This suggests a potential evolution of the character, possibly pushing him beyond his intellectual comfort zone into more physically or emotionally perilous territory.
Previous Installment – Glass Onion
“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” released on Netflix in 2022, featured an ensemble cast including Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, and Kate Hudson. The story transported Blanc to a private Greek island owned by tech billionaire Miles Bron.
The film expanded the Knives Out universe while maintaining the core elements that made the original successful: intricate plotting, social satire, and Blanc’s exceptional deductive reasoning. “Glass Onion” received positive reviews for its humor, performances, and Johnson’s clever screenplay.
Unlike the original film’s focus on family dynamics, “Glass Onion” explored themes of wealth, power, and influence in the tech industry. This thematic shift demonstrated Johnson’s interest in using the mystery format to examine different aspects of contemporary society.
The Anticipation for ‘Wake Up Dead Man’
Fans worldwide eagerly await the third installment in Rian Johnson’s mystery franchise featuring the enigmatic detective Benoit Blanc. The upcoming release promises to deliver the sleuth’s most dangerous case yet, with a stellar ensemble cast.
Release Date and Expectations
Netflix has officially announced “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” for a Fall 2025 global release. This highly anticipated third film brings back Daniel Craig as the beloved Southern detective Benoit Blanc. The streaming giant has teased that this will be Blanc’s “most dangerous case yet,” heightening expectations among viewers.
First-look images showing Craig back in character have already been released, generating significant buzz online. The film features an impressive new ensemble cast including Andrew Scott, Kerry Washington, Glenn Close, Josh O’Connor, Cailee Spaeny, Mila Kunis, and Jeremy Renner.
Following the success of “Knives Out” (2019) and “Glass Onion” (2022), fans have high expectations for this third mystery. The previous films demonstrated Johnson’s ability to craft intricate puzzles while maintaining humor and social commentary.
Growth of Whodunnits in Cinema
The “Knives Out” franchise has played a significant role in revitalizing the whodunnit genre for modern audiences. These films blend classic mystery elements with contemporary themes and humor, creating a fresh take on a beloved format.
Traditional whodunnits often followed strict formulas, but Johnson’s approach spans a broader tonal spectrum. His mysteries incorporate elements of comedy, drama, and social satire while honoring the genre’s foundations.
The success of the Knives Out series has inspired other filmmakers to explore mystery storytelling. This renaissance has brought whodunnits back to the forefront of pop culture, appealing to both classic mystery enthusiasts and new fans.
The franchise demonstrates how classic mystery structures can be reinvented for contemporary audiences. With each film, Johnson explores different settings and themes while maintaining the central appeal of watching Benoit Blanc unravel complex mysteries with his unique insight and Southern charm.
The Casting of ‘Wake Up Dead Man’
The third installment in the Knives Out franchise brings back Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc and introduces an impressive lineup of new cast members for what’s being described as his most dangerous case yet.
Returning Cast Members
Daniel Craig reprises his role as the sharp-witted Southern detective Benoit Blanc. His distinctive drawl and keen eye for detail have become hallmarks of the Knives Out series.
Craig’s return was confirmed early in production, with Netflix securing his involvement as the foundation for this third mystery. Unlike the previous films where Blanc navigated wealthy family dynamics, “Wake Up Dead Man” promises to put the detective in more perilous situations.
The film continues the anthology format established by Rian Johnson, meaning most other characters from previous installments don’t return. This approach allows each film to stand independently while maintaining Blanc as the connecting thread.
New Additions to the Ensemble
“Wake Up Dead Man” features an impressive array of new talent joining the Knives Out universe. The cast includes Andrew Scott, Kerry Washington, Josh Brolin, and Cailee Spaeny in key roles.
Mila Kunis and Jeremy Renner add star power to the ensemble, though specific details about their characters remain under wraps. The addition of Josh O’Connor and Daryl McCormack brings fresh faces to the franchise.
Thomas Haden Church and Glenn Close round out the cast, contributing their veteran talents to the mystery. Close’s involvement particularly suggests a significant character role, given her reputation for powerful performances.
The diverse casting continues Johnson’s tradition of assembling eclectic ensembles where each actor plays a distinct character who could potentially be central to the mystery.
Plot Overview
In “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” renowned private detective Benoit Blanc faces what’s being described as his most dangerous case yet. The story revolves around the shocking murder of a famous musician that sends ripples through the entertainment world.
Blanc must navigate a complex web of suspects and motives as he investigates this high-profile death. Each character brings their own secrets and potential reasons for wanting the musician dead.
Unlike previous Knives Out films, this third installment appears to take Blanc into more perilous territory. The stakes are higher and the threats more immediate than in his previous cases.
The investigation leads Blanc through exclusive music industry circles where loyalties are tested and appearances can be deceiving. As with previous Knives Out mysteries, viewers can expect intricate plot twists and clever misdirection.
The whodunnit structure remains central to the story, with Blanc methodically peeling back layers of deception to reveal the truth. Director Rian Johnson continues his tradition of subverting mystery tropes while honoring the classic detective genre.
Key Elements to Expect:
- Complex murder mystery centered in the music world
- Blanc’s signature deductive reasoning
- Dangerous scenarios that put Blanc himself at risk
- Rich character development among the new ensemble cast
- The blend of tension and humor that defines the franchise
This third outing for Daniel Craig’s beloved detective promises to deliver both familiar pleasures and fresh surprises when it arrives on Netflix in Fall 2025.
Production Details
Wake Up Dead Man brings together the key talents behind the previous Knives Out films, with expanded production values and new distribution strategies that promise to elevate the franchise further.
Filmmaking Process
Filming for “Wake Up Dead Man” began in early 2024, with writer-director Rian Johnson returning to helm the third installment in his popular mystery series. The production team chose several notable filming locations, including sites in Europe and the American Southwest, to create a distinct visual palette different from the previous films.
Johnson has maintained his preference for shooting on film rather than digital, working again with cinematographer Steve Yedlin. The duo has crafted what Johnson describes as “a more dangerous, noir-influenced aesthetic” for this chapter.
The production design team constructed elaborate sets to support the mystery’s complex setting. Costume designer Jenny Eagan returned to create distinctive looks for the new ensemble cast.
Collaboration with Netflix
Netflix secured the rights to the second and third Knives Out films in 2021 through a landmark deal reportedly worth over $450 million. This partnership has given Johnson and his producing partner Ram Bergman significant creative freedom and resources.
The streaming giant’s investment represents one of their largest commitments to an original film franchise. Unlike “Glass Onion,” which received a limited one-week theatrical release before streaming, Netflix has expanded their release strategy for “Wake Up Dead Man.”
The collaboration includes substantial marketing support and global distribution capabilities that weren’t available for the original “Knives Out” film. Netflix executives have cited the Knives Out franchise as a cornerstone of their strategy to develop more original film series with established audience appeal.
Marketing and Distribution Plans
Netflix plans a hybrid release approach for “Wake Up Dead Man,” featuring a more extensive theatrical window than “Glass Onion” received. The film will play in theaters for approximately three weeks beginning in October 2025 before moving to the streaming platform.
The marketing campaign began in February 2025 with the first-look images of Daniel Craig returning as Benoit Blanc. Netflix will roll out a series of character posters throughout summer 2025, introducing the new suspects one by one.
A full trailer is scheduled for release in July 2025, with additional promotional events at film festivals. The studio is also planning an interactive online mystery game tied to the film’s themes and characters.
International distribution will be simultaneous across all Netflix territories, allowing for a truly global release strategy that capitalizes on the franchise’s worldwide popularity.
Cultural Impact
The Knives Out franchise has reshaped modern mystery storytelling while paying homage to classic whodunnit traditions. Benoit Blanc has become a cultural icon whose methodology and distinctive personality have influenced both film and literature.
Influence of Agatha Christie
Rian Johnson’s Knives Out series draws deep inspiration from Agatha Christie’s detective novels. Like Christie’s Hercule Poirot, Benoit Blanc stands as an eccentric detective with unique methods and memorable personality quirks.
The franchise revitalized the whodunnit genre for modern audiences while maintaining Christie’s blueprint of gathering suspects in elaborate settings. Johnson cleverly adapts Christie’s technique of using social commentary within murder mysteries.
Each film, including the upcoming “Wake Up Dead Man,” features the Christie hallmark of intricate plotting and red herrings. This respectful adaptation of Christie’s formula has introduced younger generations to classic mystery structures.
The success of the Knives Out films has sparked renewed interest in Christie’s works, with publishers reporting increased sales of her novels since 2019.
Integration of Music in Storytelling
The title “Wake Up Dead Man” references U2’s haunting song from their 1997 album “Pop,” suggesting thematic connections between the lyrics and the film’s narrative. The song’s exploration of mortality and spiritual questioning could inform the mystery’s emotional core.
Johnson frequently uses music as narrative devices in his films. The first two Knives Out movies featured carefully selected soundtracks that enhanced pivotal moments and character revelations.
Music in the franchise often serves as cultural shorthand, revealing character backgrounds and motivations. Character preferences in music have provided crucial clues in previous installments.
Early production notes suggest “Wake Up Dead Man” might feature the most ambitious soundtrack of the trilogy, potentially incorporating the U2 song directly into key sequences. This musical integration continues Johnson’s pattern of using cultural references to enrich his storytelling.
Key Themes and Motifs
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” continues the franchise’s tradition of blending classic whodunnit elements with contemporary social commentary. Based on available information, the film appears to explore darker territory than its predecessors, with Benoit Blanc facing what’s described as his “most dangerous case yet.”
The title itself suggests themes of mortality and resurrection, potentially indicating higher stakes in this installment. Director Rian Johnson has consistently used the mystery genre as a vehicle to examine class dynamics and social hierarchies.
Genre Evolution:
- Classic murder mystery foundations
- Dark comedy elements
- Potential thriller components (suggested by “dangerous case”)
The film likely maintains the tonal spectrum that made previous entries successful – balancing genuine mystery with sharp wit and social satire. Johnson’s approach to the whodunnit format typically involves subverting expectations while honoring genre traditions.
Character development remains central, with Daniel Craig returning as the enigmatic detective Benoit Blanc. His character often serves as both an outsider and moral compass, examining the motives and behaviors of those around him.
Visual motifs may include symbolic imagery related to death and deception, continuing the franchise’s use of visual storytelling to reinforce thematic elements. The previous films featured distinctive settings that functioned almost as characters themselves.
While plot details remain scarce, “Wake Up Dead Man” will likely maintain the series’ examination of truth, justice, and the complex nature of human motivation – all wrapped in an entertaining mystery package.
Comparative Analysis
The Knives Out franchise has carved a unique place in modern mystery cinema, with Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc character becoming iconic in his own right. These mysteries blend classic whodunit elements with contemporary themes and humor.
Benoit Blanc vs. James Bond
Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Benoit Blanc stands in stark contrast to his famous role as James Bond. Blanc is verbose and theatrical, using his Southern drawl and quirky mannerisms to disarm suspects. Bond relies on physical prowess and gadgets, while Blanc weaponizes his intellect and psychological insight.
The detective’s methods differ significantly from 007’s approach. Blanc observes social dynamics and verbal contradictions rather than engaging in combat. His dandy appearance with signature ascots and tailored suits creates a deceptively soft exterior that hides his razor-sharp mind.
Craig has mentioned in interviews that playing Blanc offered creative freedom after the rigid constraints of the Bond franchise. This character allows him to display comedic timing and eccentric character work rarely seen in his previous roles.
Unique Elements in Knives Out Mysteries
The Knives Out series stands apart from traditional murder mysteries through its contemporary settings and social commentary. Each film features a colorful cast of suspects from different social strata, allowing for examination of class dynamics and privilege.
Rian Johnson’s direction incorporates visual storytelling techniques that provide subtle clues for attentive viewers. The camera often lingers on seemingly insignificant details that later prove crucial to solving the case.
Unlike many detective franchises that follow formulaic patterns, each Knives Out mystery presents a completely different scenario. From a family inheritance dispute to a private island murder game, the series continuously reinvents itself.
The “most dangerous case yet” tagline for Wake Up Dead Man suggests the stakes will be higher than previous installments. This progression follows a similar pattern to detective series like Agatha Christie’s Poirot, where later cases often have greater personal significance for the detective.
Viewer Engagement and Reactions
Fans of the “Knives Out” franchise have shown tremendous excitement for the upcoming third installment, “Wake Up Dead Man.” Social media platforms are buzzing with theories about what might constitute Benoit Blanc’s “most dangerous case yet.”
The previous film “Glass Onion” generated over 82.1 million viewing hours on Netflix during its first weekend, demonstrating the strong audience connection to the franchise. Many viewers appreciate Rian Johnson’s fresh approach to the murder mystery genre.
Online communities have formed dedicated discussion groups analyzing every detail from the limited promotional materials released so far. Fan artwork depicting Daniel Craig’s detective character has flourished across platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
Critics and audiences alike praised both previous films:
| Film | Rotten Tomatoes | Box Office |
|---|---|---|
| Knives Out | 97% | $311.4 million |
| Glass Onion | 92% | Limited theatrical* |
*Glass Onion had a one-week theatrical release before moving to Netflix.
Netflix’s decision to secure the rights to the sequels for a reported $450 million highlights the streaming giant’s confidence in the franchise’s audience appeal. This investment appears justified by the considerable anticipation building for “Wake Up Dead Man.”
Many fans have expressed hope for a longer theatrical release for the third film, following the limited run of “Glass Onion.” The brief theatrical window of the second film left many viewers wanting the full cinema experience.
Several podcasts now dedicate episodes to speculation about the new cast members and potential storylines. The mystery surrounding the plot has only fueled greater audience curiosity.
Future of the Franchise
With “Wake Up Dead Man” set for a Fall 2025 release, the Knives Out franchise continues to establish itself as a durable whodunnit series for Netflix. Rian Johnson shows no signs of slowing down, reportedly having ideas for multiple future installments.
Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc character has become his post-James Bond signature role. His portrayal of the Southern detective with his distinctive accent has resonated with audiences worldwide.
Netflix’s investment in the franchise remains substantial. The streaming giant paid approximately $450 million for the rights to the second and third films, demonstrating their confidence in the series’ longevity.
Johnson has expressed interest in exploring different mystery subgenres in future entries. This approach would keep the franchise fresh while maintaining the core appeal of Blanc solving complex cases.
Potential future directions include:
- Exploring international settings beyond the American locales of previous films
- Incorporating different time periods or mystery traditions
- Building a recurring supporting cast around Blanc
- Potential crossovers with other detective properties
The standalone nature of each mystery gives Johnson creative freedom. Unlike franchises that require continuous storylines, each Knives Out film functions independently while building Blanc’s character history.
Critical reception will likely influence future plans. Both previous entries received strong reviews, with “Glass Onion” earning a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score and multiple award nominations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans eagerly await details about the third installment in Rian Johnson’s mystery series. Below are answers to the most common questions about the upcoming detective thriller featuring the return of the beloved Southern sleuth.
Who is joining the cast in the new ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’?
Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc for the third film. The new cast includes Glenn Close and Kerry Washington, adding star power to this anticipated sequel.
Josh O’Connor has also been confirmed to appear in the film. As with previous Knives Out films, director Rian Johnson has assembled an all-star ensemble of suspects to surround Blanc in his investigation.
The full cast list hasn’t been officially released yet, but Johnson typically recruits impressive talent for these mystery films.
What is the official release date for ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ on Netflix?
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in Fall 2025. Netflix has not announced a specific date beyond this season timeframe.
The film is part of Netflix’s movie lineup for 2025. Previous Knives Out films have had successful releases during holiday seasons, suggesting a possible late-year release strategy.
Are there any available trailers or sneak peeks for ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’?
No official trailer has been released for Wake Up Dead Man as of February 2025. Director Rian Johnson has shared a snapshot from filming, giving fans a glimpse of Daniel Craig’s return as Benoit Blanc.
This photo represents the only official visual from the production so far. Netflix typically releases trailers a few months before the premiere date, so fans can expect footage later in 2025.
Will ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ be exclusive to Netflix or released in theaters as well?
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery appears to be following the distribution model of the second film, Glass Onion. It will likely be a Netflix exclusive release.
The first Knives Out film had a traditional theatrical release, while Glass Onion received a limited theatrical run before streaming on Netflix. There’s no confirmation yet whether Wake Up Dead Man will have any theatrical component before its Netflix debut.
How does ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ relate to the previous Knives Out films?
Wake Up Dead Man continues the anthology format established in the Knives Out series. Each film features detective Benoit Blanc solving a completely new mystery with a different cast of characters.
Rian Johnson has described this new case as Blanc’s “most dangerous” yet. The film maintains the franchise’s whodunit structure while introducing fresh themes, settings, and suspects for Blanc to investigate.
Can the original Knives Out and its sequel still be streamed online, and if so, where?
The original Knives Out (2019) is available on various streaming platforms depending on your region. It typically requires rental or purchase on services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or YouTube.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery remains exclusively available on Netflix as part of their original content library. Subscribers can stream it anytime on the platform as Netflix owns the rights to both the second film and the upcoming third installment.
