Rian Johnson, known for directing the acclaimed murder mystery series, is preparing to release his third installment in the popular saga, reinforcing the enduring appeal of the Rian Johnson Knives Out sequels. The upcoming film, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, marks the completion of Johnson’s current two-sequel deal with Netflix—a partnership that began after Netflix acquired the rights following the original film’s critical and box office triumph under Lionsgate.
Future of the Franchise Remains Uncertain but Promising
Speaking at the Los Angeles premiere of the new film, Johnson expressed interest in exploring further stories within the series. He suggested there is strong creative potential for additional films, indicating the possibility of expanding beyond the current agreement. Johnson conveyed his outlook to The Hollywood Reporter during the event at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
“Creatively, I feel energized after making this one,”
Johnson told The Hollywood Reporter on the red carpet at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
“Daniel [Craig] and I are already starting to formulate … what could the next one be if we do another one?”
– Rian Johnson, Director
The director, a two-time Oscar nominee, also shared his enthusiasm for working with fresh ensembles for each installment.
“I don’t know why I would stop doing it if we could keep making them,”
Johnson said. – Rian Johnson, Director
Plot and Cast of the Latest Installment Unveiled
Wake Up Dead Man sees Daniel Craig reprise his role as Detective Benoit Blanc, investigating a puzzling crime at a small Catholic church in upstate New York. The film introduces a new cast of characters, with franchise newcomers Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, and Daryl McCormack joining the ensemble. Their involvement continues the pattern of selecting notable actors to create a distinct dynamic for each story.
What Audiences Can Anticipate
The anticipation for the release is high, with Wake Up Dead Man scheduled to premiere in select theaters on November 26th before its streaming debut on Netflix starting December 12th. As Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig begin considering ideas for further films, the future of the franchise appears bright, positioning the Rian Johnson Knives Out sequels as a continual point of excitement for fans, industry watchers, and new audiences alike.
