Rian Johnson Teases More Knives Out Mysteries After Wake Up Dead Man

Director Rian Johnson suggests the Knives Out series may continue beyond its third film. He shared his enthusiasm at the Los Angeles premiere of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. The event took place Monday night at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.

The filmmaker feels creatively energized after completing this latest whodunit. According to The Hollywood Reporter, he and star Daniel Craig are already brainstorming ideas for a potential fourth movie.

A Star-Studded Return for Benoit Blanc

Daniel Craig reprises his role as the Southern detective Benoit Blanc. He investigates a strange crime at a small Catholic church in upstate New York. The film’s ensemble cast features many exciting new faces.

Newcomers include Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, and Josh Brolin. Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, and Kerry Washington also join the mystery. Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, and Daryl McCormack round out the suspect list.

The setting inspired deep discussions about faith at the premiere. Several cast members drew from their own religious upbringings for their roles. Josh O’Connor, who plays a priest, even consulted with a real clergyman for preparation.

Exploring Modern Themes Through Classic Mystery

Rian Johnson uses the murder mystery format to tackle current social issues. The first film engaged with hostility toward immigrants. Wake Up Dead Man examines the weaponization of religion and power within institutions.

Josh Brolin’s character, a manipulative Monsignor, serves as a dark example. Brolin studied videos of corrupt religious leaders for the role. He admitted his character made him uncomfortable, which he saw as appropriate for the story.

Johnson praised recent statements from Catholic bishops criticizing U.S. immigration policy. He connected this to the film’s exploration of inhumanity. The director believes these are crucial issues for everyone, regardless of faith.

The future of the Knives Out franchise looks bright as Johnson and Craig plot their next case. Fans can expect more intricate puzzles and sharp social commentary. The series continues to reinvent the modern whodunit with style and substance.

Thought you’d like to know

When does *Wake Up Dead Man* come out?

The film opens in select theaters on November 26. It will then debut globally on Netflix starting December 12.

Who is in the new *Knives Out* movie?

Daniel Craig returns as Benoit Blanc. He is joined by a new cast including Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Kerry Washington, and Andrew Scott.

Will there be more *Knives Out* movies after this?

Director Rian Johnson has expressed a strong desire to continue. He and Daniel Craig are already formulating ideas for a potential fourth film in the series.

What is the setting for *Wake Up Dead Man*?

The mystery is set at a small Catholic church in upstate New York. This religious backdrop plays a central role in the film’s plot and themes.