What's happened
The third film in the Knives Out series, 'Wake Up Dead Man,' premieres on Netflix on December 12, after limited cinema release. Daniel Craig returns as Benoit Blanc to solve a church murder in upstate New York, with a runtime of 144 minutes. The film features a large ensemble cast and explores themes of religion and mystery.
What's behind the headline?
The release of 'Wake Up Dead Man' on Netflix marks a significant expansion for the Knives Out franchise, emphasizing its appeal across streaming audiences. The film’s focus on religion and a confined 'locked room' mystery reflects Rian Johnson’s intent to deepen the series’ thematic complexity. The casting of high-profile actors suggests a strategic effort to attract diverse viewers. However, initial reviews, such as Mark Kennedy’s from AP News, describe the film as 'gloomy and clunky,' indicating that Johnson’s darker tone may not resonate with all fans. The film’s longer runtime and thematic depth could challenge audience engagement, but it also offers a richer narrative experience for dedicated viewers. Overall, this release will likely bolster Netflix’s reputation for high-quality original content and expand the franchise’s global reach, though it may polarize critics and audiences alike.
What the papers say
The Scotsman highlights the film’s release date and setting details, emphasizing its cinematic and streaming rollout. Janet Christie’s coverage focuses on the film’s thematic elements and initial critical reception, noting the darker tone and cast performances. AP News provides a broader context, discussing the film’s themes of religion, its ensemble cast, and mixed reviews, which suggest a complex reception. The contrasting opinions reflect a franchise that is both ambitious and divisive, with some critics appreciating its depth and others questioning its pacing and tone.
How we got here
The Knives Out series, created by Rian Johnson, began with the 2019 film and continued with Glass Onion in 2022. The third installment, 'Wake Up Dead Man,' was filmed in London but set in upstate New York. It follows detective Benoit Blanc as he investigates a complex murder at a church, with a focus on religious themes and a star-studded cast including Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, and Kerry Washington.
Go deeper
Common question
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What to Expect from Knives Out 3: Wake Up Dead Man on Netflix?
Fans of the Knives Out series are eagerly awaiting the third installment, 'Wake Up Dead Man,' now available on Netflix. This new film promises a gripping murder mystery set in upstate New York, featuring Daniel Craig returning as detective Benoit Blanc. Curious about the plot, cast, release date, and how this sequel compares to previous movies? Keep reading for all the details you need to know about Knives Out 3.
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