Rian Johnson’s Wake Up Dead Man Premieres TIFF 2025

Netflix has released the official teaser for 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,' the third installment in Rian Johnson's murder mystery series, debuting in select theaters on November 26, 2025, and streaming on Netflix starting December 12. The film marks a tonal shift from the previous entries, embracing a darker, gothic atmosphere with serious reflections on faith, as it centers around a Catholic parish in the fictional town of Chimney Rock, New York. Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc, although his role is somewhat reduced to allow the story to focus more on Reverend Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) and Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin), whose conflicting views on faith and morality drive much of the narrative. The movie explores themes such as faith versus logic, the impact of fake news, and the significance of storytelling, offering a rich screenplay that rewards multiple viewings. The ensemble cast also includes Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, and others, with the story unfolding around a murder that happens on Good Friday. Critics highlight the film's blend of mystery and thematic depth, praising its balance of humor and malevolence.