Quick Read
- Knives Out 3 is titled ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ and stars Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc.
- The film will be released on Netflix on December 12, 2025, following a limited theatrical debut on November 28.
- The mystery centers on the murder of a Monsignor in upstate New York, featuring a star-studded cast including Glenn Close and Josh O’Connor.
- Director Rian Johnson expressed frustration over the film’s limited theatrical rollout, but it may remain in cinemas beyond the Netflix release if there’s demand.
- Early reviews are highly positive, with some critics calling it the best entry in the Knives Out series.
Knives Out 3 Sets the Stage for a New Whodunnit Classic
Few film series in recent years have revitalized the murder mystery genre quite like Rian Johnson’s Knives Out. With each installment, Johnson proves the classic whodunnit isn’t just alive—it’s thriving, evolving, and more captivating than ever. Now, in 2025, the saga continues with its third entry, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, premiering on Netflix December 12, just weeks after its theatrical debut.
Benoit Blanc Returns: Daniel Craig Faces His Toughest Challenge Yet
Daniel Craig’s Southern-accented sleuth, Benoit Blanc, has become the heart and soul of the Knives Out films. In Wake Up Dead Man, Craig steps back into the role, bringing the same charm and sharp intellect that won over audiences worldwide. But this time, Blanc isn’t just solving a murder—he’s unraveling a puzzle that stretches the boundaries of possibility.
The film’s central mystery revolves around the shocking death of the charismatic Monsignor (played by Josh Brolin) at a small Catholic parish in upstate New York. The murder seems impossible, and suspicion falls on a web of characters: a young clergyman (Josh O’Connor), the Monsignor’s loyal followers, and perhaps even those outside the parish’s walls. Johnson’s script doesn’t just ask “who did it?”—it asks “how could this have happened at all?” The stakes are higher, the twists sharper, and the suspects more intriguing than ever.
A Star-Studded Ensemble Cast Elevates the Drama
One hallmark of the Knives Out series is its ability to assemble an ensemble cast that feels both fresh and electric. Wake Up Dead Man is no exception. Alongside Daniel Craig, the film features acclaimed actors Glenn Close, Andrew Scott, Josh O’Connor, and Josh Brolin, creating a dynamic mix of personalities and motives. Their performances add layers to the narrative, with each character bringing their own secrets and ambitions to the table.
In the tradition of classic Agatha Christie tales, Johnson crafts a story where every glance, every whispered conversation, and every detail matters. The parish setting, remote and cloistered, amplifies the tension—making viewers wonder if the walls themselves are keeping secrets.
Netflix Release and Theatrical Rollout: A New Model for Mysteries
Following in the footsteps of Glass Onion, the second Knives Out film, Wake Up Dead Man arrives as a Netflix original. Its release strategy reflects the shifting landscape of film distribution: the movie hits theaters on November 28, but lands on Netflix December 12. This approach offers fans two ways to experience the film—on the big screen or in the comfort of home, just in time for the festive season.
Rian Johnson himself has voiced frustration over the limited theatrical rollout, wishing for a broader big-screen presence. However, he confirmed on social media that the film can continue in theaters beyond its Netflix debut, if there’s audience demand. For many viewers, though, the Netflix release just before Christmas promises the perfect backdrop for a cozy, suspenseful movie night.
Critical Reception: Another Win for Johnson’s Whodunnit Formula
Critics have responded enthusiastically to Wake Up Dead Man. Early reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with some calling it Johnson’s best work yet. The Radio Times awarded it a strong four-star rating, praising the film’s inventive plotting, memorable performances, and deft balance between tension and humor.
As with previous entries, Johnson’s direction and writing keep viewers guessing until the final moments. The film doesn’t simply rest on the success of its predecessors; it pushes the genre forward, offering new twists and emotional depth that resonate beyond the closing credits.
Wake Up Dead Man: More Than Just a Mystery
Underneath the whodunnit surface, Wake Up Dead Man explores themes of faith, power, and the nature of truth. The parish setting isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a microcosm of trust and betrayal, where every character must confront their own demons. The film’s title itself is a metaphor—a reminder that even the most settled cases can be upended, that the truth is always waiting to be discovered.
For long-time fans and newcomers alike, the third Knives Out film promises a fresh experience. Whether you’re drawn to the cerebral puzzles, the star-studded cast, or the atmospheric storytelling, there’s something here for everyone. And as the credits roll, one question will linger: in a world where nothing is as it seems, can Benoit Blanc uncover the truth before it’s too late?
Wake Up Dead Man cements Rian Johnson’s reputation as a master of modern mystery. By blending classic whodunnit elements with contemporary themes and a diverse cast, the film keeps the audience hooked from start to finish. As streaming and theatrical models continue to evolve, Knives Out 3 stands out as a blueprint for how great stories can reach and captivate wider audiences in 2025.