Toni Collette has declared that the newest addition to the Knives Out series is the best one yet, including her own role in the original film. At the Toronto Film Festival premiere of Knives Out 3: Wake Up Dead Man earlier this month, Collette, who first appeared as Joni Thrombey six years ago, expressed admiration for director Rian Johnson’s latest work.
Collette revealed initial uncertainty about the new movie’s quality, but was quickly won over by its engaging and intelligent storytelling, calling it a standout in the mystery genre. Her positive impression highlights the ongoing excitement surrounding the franchise as it prepares for its Netflix release on December 12.
First Impressions: A Premiere Full of Energy and Praise
Reflecting on her experience at the premiere, Collette admitted she worried the film might not hold her attention. However, she quickly found herself captivated by the film’s blend of sharp intelligence, humor, and deep character exploration. She described the movie as “electrifying” and filled with “incredible performances” that blend comedic elements with profound questions about identity and belief.
“First of all, I was kind of panicked. I thought, ‘Oh my God, I hope I don’t fall asleep.’ It would be dreadful,”
Collette said with a laugh.
“But I was electrified. I was so inspired. It is the most intelligent, fun, specifically detailed, like, saturated with incredible performances and hilarity, and, like, real moments of questioning who we are and faith.”
— Toni Collette, Actress
Collette emphasized how rare it is to find a film like Wake Up Dead Man these days, further underscoring her enthusiasm for the project.
New Faces Join Returning Cast in a Fresh Ensemble
Wake Up Dead Man stars Daniel Craig reprising his role as detective Benoit Blanc, alongside newcomers such as Josh O’Connor, Cailee Spaeny, Kerry Washington, Glenn Close, Andrew Scott, Jeremy Renner, Daryl McCormack, and Mila Kunis. Collette noted her sense of nostalgia watching the cast interact, recalling the camaraderie she experienced when filming the first movie.
She described the atmosphere on set as a closely knit, genuine ensemble experience.
“I felt really happy for the actors, because there was a Q&A afterwards, and they were talking about the experience of making the movie and how they all used to hang out together, and how it really is a true ensemble experience and that was my experience,”
Collette recalled.
“We were shooting in that mansion, and we’d all go down to this little basement and sit there and drink cups of tea and just talk.”
— Toni Collette, Actress
Rian Johnson’s Role in Creating the Film’s Unique Atmosphere
Collette praised Rian Johnson not only as a talented filmmaker but also as a person who fosters a joyful and connected working environment. This positive vibe, she explained, contributes directly to the cast’s chemistry and performance.
“We had trailers, but we didn’t want to go to one. We wanted to hang out. And it’s just that vibe and that joy and that connectedness. And I think it starts with Rian,”
she shared.
“He’s a truly good person, and he’s so creatively astute, and so smart, and just such an inspiration as a filmmaker.”
— Toni Collette, Actress
Upcoming Projects and Continued Netflix Collaboration
While audiences await the December release of Wake Up Dead Man, Collette is preparing for the launch of her new limited series, Wayward, which premieres on Netflix later this month. The series follows a last-chance boarding school for teenagers, spotlighting intense emotional dynamics.
Collette praised the lead young actresses, Sydney Topliffe and Alyvia Alyn Lind, for their genuine performances and the complexity their characters bring to the story.
“I find the two young girls, the lead characters [Sydney Topliffe as Abbie and Alyvia Alyn Lind as Leila], so exciting. I wish I was their age to play one of those parts. They’re so gutsy,”
she said.
“They’re so themselves, their friendship is so tight and loving and supportive, and then they are just put in this hot-water situation of judgment where it’s meant to be helpful, and they’re seeing through it. But also some of it feels good and it’s confusing.”
— Toni Collette, Actress
Wayward will be available to stream on Netflix starting September 25.
The Significance of a Strong Franchise and What’s Next
Toni Collette’s praise for Knives Out 3 underscores how the series continues to evolve with fresh talent and innovative storytelling. The film’s upcoming release promises to attract both longtime fans and new viewers, bolstered by its mix of humor, mystery, and emotional depth.
With a talented ensemble and Rian Johnson’s visionary direction, the franchise maintains its appeal and critical acclaim. Audiences can look forward to experiencing another thrilling chapter of mystery and character-driven drama later this year.
