Director Rian Johnson is set to release his third Knives Out mystery, Wake Up, Dead Man, streaming on Netflix from December 12.
The story follows Father Jud Duplenticy, portrayed by Josh O’Connor, who becomes the main suspect in a murder within a small Catholic church community.
The iconic Knives Out detective, Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, returns to unravel the mystery.
Johnson discussed creating the franchise’s third installment. Here are highlights from the conversation:
Mila Kunis, Daniel Craig, and Josh O’Connor in ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’
When choosing film titles, like Glass Onion and Wake Up, Dead Man, how much do you aim to intrigue the audience with just the title?
Well, the goal is to select a title that fits the murder mystery genre, sparking curiosity and, ideally, once viewed, feels like it couldn’t be called anything else. I believe this title fits well.
Do you envision specific actors while writing these mysteries?
I try not to, to avoid disappointment, as many actors are eager to join but might not be available due to their busy schedules. Instead, I focus on crafting engaging characters and finding the best actors to portray them.
Glenn Close, Mila Kunis, Andrew Scott, Kerry Washington, Daryl McCormack, and Cailee Spaeny in ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’
Last time we spoke about Glass Onion, you had already completed this script. How far ahead do you plan future installments?
I find it crucial not to develop an idea until I’m certain it’s the next project. I don’t have a backlog of ideas for these films.
