Quick Read
- Daniel Craig reprises Benoit Blanc in the third Knives Out film, ‘Wake Up Dead Man’.
- Craig stars alongside Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, and other acclaimed actors.
- The story explores faith, guilt, and redemption within a murder mystery framework.
- Director Rian Johnson describes this as his most challenging script yet.
- Craig’s collaborative approach strengthens the film’s ensemble dynamic.
Daniel Craig is back in the iconic role of Benoit Blanc, the sharp-witted detective whose southern drawl and cerebral approach have become synonymous with the ‘Knives Out’ franchise. In 2025, Craig stars alongside Josh O’Connor and Glenn Close in ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’, the third installment of Rian Johnson’s celebrated whodunit series. This new chapter, streaming on Netflix, promises not just another murder to solve, but a deeper exploration of faith, guilt, and redemption—territory rarely charted in the genre’s traditional landscape.
For Craig, ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ is more than a routine return. While his Benoit Blanc remains the linchpin of Johnson’s intricate mysteries, this film brings fresh energy and emotional stakes thanks to a cast that includes O’Connor, Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church. The ensemble is a testament to Johnson’s knack for assembling talent that can handle both the comedic and dramatic demands of his writing.
Daniel Craig’s Enduring Appeal as Benoit Blanc
Since debuting as Blanc in 2019’s ‘Knives Out’, Craig has redefined the modern detective. His performance blends the gravitas of classic cinema sleuths with a quirky, approachable wit. In ‘Wake Up Dead Man’, Craig’s Blanc finds himself drawn into the complex life of Father Jud Duplenticy (O’Connor), a boxer-turned-priest haunted by past tragedy. The dynamic between Blanc and Jud anchors the film, with Craig’s seasoned presence offering stability amid the swirling chaos of secrets and suspicion.
Craig’s ability to elevate his co-stars is evident, as noted by both Rian Johnson and Daniel himself in interviews. “He’s a brilliant actor. He brings his A game every time he comes to set, which is all you want from somebody you’re working with,” Craig says of O’Connor. The mutual respect between the actors enriches their on-screen chemistry, ensuring the narrative resonates beyond the mystery’s surface.
Behind the Scenes: Ensemble Energy and Creative Collaboration
‘Wake Up Dead Man’ is distinguished not only by its star power but by the collaborative spirit Johnson fosters on set. Unlike typical Hollywood productions where actors retreat to isolated trailers, this film’s cast regularly gathered in a communal greenroom—a simple tent in a sometimes sweltering studio. For Craig and the rest, this camaraderie recalled the closeness of theater, creating a supportive atmosphere that helped them through grueling days.
Craig’s experience in both blockbuster and indie settings gave him an appreciation for this approach. The warmth and comfort on set allowed the cast to bond, share insights, and maintain morale even when the work was physically demanding. Such an environment is rare, and it speaks to Johnson’s vision of filmmaking as a collective endeavor rather than a solitary pursuit.
The Mystery: Faith, Conflict, and the Human Condition
At the heart of ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ lies a story that goes beyond murder and deduction. The film centers on the murder of Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin) at the small parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude in upstate New York. Chief of Police Geraldine Scott (Mila Kunis) suspects Father Jud, forcing him to confront his own faith and past mistakes. As Blanc investigates, the narrative delves into themes of religious conviction, community tension, and the shadow of personal guilt.
Craig’s role as Blanc is pivotal. His character must not only solve the crime but navigate a community fractured by suspicion and moral ambiguity. The interplay between Blanc’s rational inquiry and Jud’s spiritual journey adds layers to the film, making it as much a meditation on belief and forgiveness as it is a puzzle to be unraveled.
Daniel Craig’s Legacy and the Future of Knives Out
With ‘Wake Up Dead Man’, Daniel Craig cements his status as one of cinema’s most versatile leading men. His transition from James Bond to Benoit Blanc has been marked by a willingness to embrace complexity, humor, and vulnerability. This third Knives Out film showcases Craig’s ability to inhabit a character who is as much a part of the ensemble as he is its driving force.
Looking ahead, the success of the Knives Out series is inseparable from Craig’s performance. His rapport with Johnson and his fellow actors ensures that each film feels fresh, engaging, and relevant. As Johnson himself admits, scripting this chapter was his hardest yet—but with Craig anchoring the story, the result is a nuanced, compelling mystery that stands out in a crowded field.
Daniel Craig’s return as Benoit Blanc in ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ is not merely a reprise but a reinvention. Through his nuanced performance and genuine collaboration with a stellar cast, Craig continues to set the standard for modern whodunits, proving that character-driven mysteries can be both entertaining and deeply human. His legacy in the genre is secure, and the anticipation for future installments is only heightened by the richness of this latest entry.