Rian Johnson, the creator and director of the Knives Out series, has revealed that crafting the script for the third installment in the franchise was the most difficult he has ever undertaken. The newest film, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, follows detective Benoit Blanc as he investigates a murder within a church congregation led by Monsignor Jefferson Wicks. Johnson’s difficulty stemmed not from the typical complexities of a whodunit but from navigating sensitive religious themes woven into the story.
Scheduled for theatrical release on November 26, with a Netflix debut on December 12, this third film brings back Daniel Craig as Blanc. The ensemble cast also features Josh O’Connor, Kerry Washington, Jeremy Renner, Josh Brolin, Glenn Close, Cailee Spaeny, and Jeffrey Wright among others, continuing the series’ tradition of star-studded lineups.
Rian Johnson’s Personal Connection to the Script’s Themes
Johnson’s writing skill is well established, having earned critical acclaim for his previous screenplays. However, he candidly spoke with Empire magazine about the unique challenges posed by this script’s religious elements. Growing up deeply Christian, Johnson explained how his evolving beliefs influenced the way he approached the story’s spiritual aspects.
“This was definitely the hardest script I’ve ever written. I grew up very Christian — not just raised going to church, but with a belief in God, and a relationship with Christ being incredibly central to the way I framed everything in the world around me. And I’m not anymore. I have lots of people in my life that I love that still are [religious], and there are things about that time that I still really treasure. I have a lot of complicated feelings about it.” – Rian Johnson, writer/director
“That’s the real reason the script was so hard to write. It’s something I do take really seriously. I wanted to explore it in a really honest way, while also not being facile about it, or — God forbid — moralistic or irreverent.” – Rian Johnson, writer/director
His reflection reveals the delicate balance Johnson aimed for, treating the subject matter with sincerity and respect without resorting to simplistic or judgmental portrayals.
Daniel Craig on Johnson’s Writing Approach and the Film’s Depth
Daniel Craig, who reprises his role as detective Benoit Blanc, highlighted Johnson’s tenacity in perfecting the screenplay. Craig described the writer’s dedication as relentless, underscoring the meticulous care that went into developing this complex story.
“Once he starts, he’s like a dog with a bone — he works it and works it and works it until he gets it right. And then read it immediately again. It’s like watching the movies — it’s always great to watch it a second time, because there are always bits you miss.” – Daniel Craig, actor
Craig’s remarks emphasize not only Johnson’s commitment but also the layered storytelling characteristic of the Knives Out films, encouraging audiences to engage actively with the narrative.
The Knives Out Franchise’s Academy Awards Prospects
The Knives Out series is notable for becoming a rare Hollywood franchise with back-to-back Academy Award nominations. The original 2019 film received recognition for Best Original Screenplay, while its 2022 sequel, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, earned a nod for Best Adapted Screenplay. With Wake Up Dead Man promising to be the most ambitious entry yet, anticipation is high that Netflix will launch a vigorous “For Your Consideration” campaign ahead of the Oscars.
Expectations are that Johnson’s most challenging script will resonate with Academy voters, potentially positioning the film as a strong contender for winning an Oscar in the coming awards season.
Wake Up Dead Man’s Ensemble Cast and Characters
- Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc, the ever-curious detective unraveling intricate mysteries.
- Josh O’Connor portraying Reverend Jud Duplenticy, a pivotal figure within the church setting.
- Glenn Close as Martha Delacroix, a character intertwined with the unfolding events.
- Josh Brolin embodying Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, the leader of the church congregation central to the plot.
The film’s cast also includes Kerry Washington, Jeremy Renner, Cailee Spaeny, Jeffrey Wright, and others, maintaining the franchise’s signature ensemble dynamic that enriches the story’s complexity and depth.
Significance and Anticipated Impact of the New Knives Out Film
With its release imminent, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery stands as a significant entry not only for the franchise but for Johnson’s career. Tackling deep, personal themes within a gripping murder mystery framework, this film may expand the boundaries of traditional whodunits. Its intense exploration of faith and doubt promises to provoke thought while delivering the suspense fans expect.
As audiences prepare to experience the film in theaters and on Netflix, the critical and awards reception will likely gauge the lasting influence of Johnson’s boldest script yet, potentially securing his position among Hollywood’s most respected filmmakers.
