"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" – Benoit Blanc Returns for His Darkest Chapter Yet
Get ready, mystery fans! The highly anticipated third installment in Rian Johnson's acclaimed "Knives Out" series, officially titled "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery," is set to plunge audiences into Benoit Blanc's most perilous and darkest case to date. With a star-studded ensemble cast and a chilling new setting, this Netflix original promises to be a gripping cinematic event of 2025.
The Return of Detective Benoit Blanc
Daniel Craig reprises his iconic role as the charming and idiosyncratic private detective Benoit Blanc, ready to unravel another complex web of deceit and murder. This time, Blanc's personal journey is said to be deeper, engaging with the mystery in a profoundly different way. Director Rian Johnson has hinted that Blanc will be "going through some shit," suggesting a more intense and perhaps vulnerable portrayal of the beloved sleuth.
A Darker, More Dangerous Mystery Unfolds
"Wake Up Dead Man" is being touted as the "darkest chapter" in the "Knives Out" saga, a return to the genre's roots, even predating Agatha Christie to the likes of Edgar Allan Poe. The plot centers around a "sudden and seemingly impossible murder" that rocks a local community in New York. The investigation leads Blanc to an old stone church surrounded by graveyards, a setting that promises a gothic and atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding mystery.
An All-Star Ensemble Cast Joins the Investigation
Rian Johnson has once again assembled an impressive roster of talent to bring this new mystery to life. Joining Daniel Craig are:
- Josh O'Connor as Rev. Jud Duplenticy, a young priest.
- Josh Brolin as Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, a charismatic firebrand.
- Glenn Close as Martha Delacroix, a devout church lady.
- Mila Kunis as Geraldine Scott, the local police chief who teams up with Blanc.
- Jeremy Renner as Dr. Nat Sharp, the town doctor.
- Kerry Washington as Vera Draven, a tightly-wound lawyer.
- Andrew Scott as Lee Ross, a best-selling author.
- Cailee Spaeny as Simone Vivane, a concert cellist.
- Daryl McCormack as Cy Draven, an aspiring politician.
- Thomas Haden Church as Samson Holt, a circumspect groundskeeper.
This diverse and talented cast ensures a rich tapestry of characters, each with potential motives and secrets, keeping audiences guessing until the very end.
Key Release Dates for "Wake Up Dead Man"
Mark your calendars for these crucial dates:
- World Premiere: September 6, 2025, at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). This continues the tradition of the "Knives Out" films premiering at TIFF.
- International Premiere: October 8, 2025, at the BFI London Film Festival.
- Theatrical Release: November 26, 2025, in select theaters. This Thanksgiving weekend release aligns with previous installments.
- Global Netflix Release: December 12, 2025.
Fans will have multiple opportunities to experience Benoit Blanc's latest adventure, culminating in its worldwide streaming debut on Netflix.
Why "Wake Up Dead Man" Is a Must-Watch
- Daniel Craig's Deeper Portrayal: Expect a more emotionally resonant performance from Blanc as he navigates a challenging personal journey.
- Gothic, Darker Tone: The shift to an old church and graveyard setting promises a fresh, more intense atmosphere for the murder mystery.
- Exceptional Ensemble Cast: A new lineup of acclaimed actors guarantees compelling character dynamics and stellar performances.
- Rian Johnson's Signature Twists: Known for his clever plotting and unexpected turns, Johnson is set to deliver another masterclass in the whodunit genre.
"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" is poised to be one of the most talked-about films of the year, offering a fresh, darker take on the beloved murder mystery franchise while staying true to the intricate storytelling and engaging characters that fans adore.