The long-standing fan speculation about tension between Star Wars directors J.J. Abrams and Rian Johnson was addressed this week when the two appeared together on stage for a Q&A about Johnson’s upcoming Knives Out threequel, Wake Up Dead Man. The event took place shortly after a screening of the film, where Johnson immediately lightened the mood by cracking a Star Wars-related joke involving both their franchises, tying in the Knives Out sequel discussion with their previous work.
Abrams Praises Johnson’s Latest Film and Shares Writing Insight
During the conversation, Abrams praised Wake Up Dead Man, calling it “an incredible accomplishment” that exceeded expectations, emphasizing it as more than just the best entry in the Knives Out series. He also disclosed that Johnson consulted him during the screenwriting stage out of concern for expanding the tone in the third installment. Johnson confessed he was “very worried” about the narrative choice to delay the introduction of the film’s central character but considered that apprehension a sign that the risk was worthwhile.
Behind-the-Scenes Star Wars Moment Highlights Daniel Craig’s Early Impact
Daniel Craig, the star of Wake Up Dead Man, was present at the Q&A. Johnson recalled an anecdote from his time working on Star Wars: Episode VIII, when dailies from Episode VII were being viewed. He recounted a scene featuring Daisy Ridley’s character using the Force to control a Stormtrooper, who silently walked over to unlock her belongings. Johnson’s keen observation led him to question who the Stormtrooper actor was, suspecting it was someone notable rather than a stunt performer. Lucasfilm’s Pablo Hidalgo initially dismissed this, suggesting it was “just a stunt dude,” but later confirmed Johnson was correct—it was Daniel Craig.
Wake Up Dead Man Explores Themes of Faith, Mystery, and Reason
The new Knives Out film follows detective Benoit Blanc as he investigates the murder of a priest and the suspicion cast on a fellow detective. The storyline promises to weave themes of faith and logic, centered on a crime that may appear miraculous. Audiences can look forward to the film’s theatrical release on November 26, with Netflix streaming scheduled to begin globally on December 12.
