The latest installment in the Knives Out franchise, titled Wake Up Dead Man, has recently hit theaters, but its release has been notably subdued. The film, directed by Rian Johnson, is available in a limited number of theaters and will transition to Netflix starting December 12. Johnson has voiced his frustration regarding the restricted theatrical rollout, which has limited its audience reach and affected ticket sales significantly compared to its predecessors, Knives Out and Glass Onion, even though the new film has received strong critical acclaim.
Currently, Wake Up Dead Man finds itself screening primarily in smaller arthouse venues instead of major theater chains like AMC, Regal, and Cinemark. These larger circuits opted for longer theatrical windows, similar to Glass Onion’s 30 days, whereas Wake Up Dead Man is only slated for a 17-day stint. As a result, the promotional campaign for the film did not match that of its predecessor. Johnson publicly shared his disappointment, stating, “I’m as frustrated as you that it’s not everywhere,” responding to fans’ concerns on social media.
Despite these challenges, the film has managed to sell out screens in over 500 locations, a noteworthy accomplishment given the circumstances. Wake Up Dead Man boasts an impressive 92 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many reviewers praising it as a return to the clever mystery storytelling that characterized the first film. Critics cite the film’s engaging performance and direction, suggesting that it rectifies the disappointment some fans felt regarding Glass Onion’s complex plotting.
The film unfolds with Benoit Blanc, portrayed by Daniel Craig, delving into a peculiar murder mystery involving Reverend Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) and the charismatic Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin). The narrative begins with a lengthy recounting of events leading to the murder, showcasing a more elaborate structure compared to typical entries in the genre. The murder itself is depicted as an “impossible crime” reminiscent of classic mystery narratives, which adds a nostalgic flair for genre enthusiasts.
The plot pulls from Johnson’s own experiences growing up in a strict Protestant environment, creating intriguing commentary on faith and belief through Blanc’s atheistic perspective. The cast features a range of talent, including Glenn Close as a dedicated church member, Jeremy Renner as a town doctor, and Mila Kunis as the investigating police chief. Among the performances, O’Connor’s role stands out, and his character’s intriguing backstory adds depth to the film.
Although Wake Up Dead Man presents a uniquely awkward storytelling style, it offers a grounded and memorable experience, particularly when stacked against the more chaotic Glass Onion. While its theatrical release may be limited, the franchise continues to draw interest. For fans who appreciate Johnson’s cinematic style, Wake Up Dead Man provides an intriguing entry into the beloved series, showcasing the potential for a delightful reunion with familiar characters and a compelling mystery. Unfortunately, the film’s fate in theaters underscores ongoing concerns about the future of feature films in a streaming-dominated landscape.