Josh Brolin shares that his experience working on Rian Johnson’s upcoming third installment of the “Knives Out” series, titled “Wake Up Dead Man,” has been a pivotal moment in his acting career. In an interview with Variety, Brolin expressed that participating in the film has not only highlighted his professional growth but also reflected his personal journey through sobriety.
Brolin mentioned that the complexity of his character in “Wake Up Dead Man” challenged him significantly, stating, “I read it and I was like, ‘This is so elevated. This writing is supreme.’ I was scared… I don’t know if I can portray all these subtleties in a way that’s organic and authentic.” He acknowledged that had he not been sober, approaching this role might have looked very different.
The film features a star-studded cast, including Josh O’Connor, Kerry Washington, and returning star Daniel Craig, among others. The “Knives Out” franchise debuted in 2019 with “Knives Out,” followed by “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” in 2022. Johnson has confirmed this third installment as part of a lucrative two-sequel partnership with Netflix, valued at $450 million.
Reflecting on how sobriety has impacted his craft, Brolin stated, “I wasn’t one of those people where I didn’t know what happened when I was drinking. I didn’t black out… I was willing to endure those horrible things in order to have an identity.” He expressed a profound sense of responsibility to live fully, especially given the losses he’s faced among friends due to alcohol-related issues.
The film is slated for release in 2025. While it’s uncertain whether “Wake Up Dead Man” will be given a theatrical release, Daniel Craig expressed his hope that it would be shown in theaters for an extended period, emphasizing the desire among fans for a cinema experience. “The people I speak to… all they want to do is take their families and go see it at the cinemas,” he shared.
This insight serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art and personal growth. Brolin’s experience illustrates how overcoming personal challenges can lead to professional enlightenment, and it suggests a hopeful future for individuals aspiring to better themselves in all aspects of life.
In summary, Brolin’s reflection sheds light on the importance of personal growth in shaping an actor’s performance, turning challenges into opportunities for deeper artistic expression. As anticipation builds for the third “Knives Out” installment, fans and audiences alike can look forward to both an engaging mystery and an inspiring story of resilience.