Benoit Blanc is set to return for another thrilling investigation in Rian Johnson’s third installment of the “Knives Out” series, titled “Wake Up Dead Man.” The much-anticipated film, announced for a 2025 release, was unveiled in a teaser posted on X early Friday morning. Daniel Craig, who reprises his role as the sharp-witted detective, narrates the teaser with a cryptic message: “In the beginning, the knives came out. Then, behold, the glass was shattered. But my most dangerous case yet is about to be revealed,” alluding to the franchise’s previous films, 2019’s “Knives Out” and 2022’s “Glass Onion.”
Knives Out 3 – Wake Up Dead Man
The announcement set the internet abuzz, particularly after Johnson posted a playful image of a Pokémon egg, hinting that something significant was about to be revealed. This was quickly followed by the title announcement and a reflection on his passion for the whodunit genre. Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for exploring the genre’s versatility, saying, “I love everything about whodunnits, but one of the things I love most is how malleable the genre is. There’s a whole tonal spectrum from Carr to Christie, and getting to explore that range is one of the most exciting things about making Benoit Blanc movies.”
The Daniel Craig starrer will be distributed by Netflix, continuing Johnson’s two-sequel deal with the streaming giant, valued at $450 million. Despite the commercial success of the first film, which grossed $312 million globally under Lionsgate, Netflix’s release strategy for “Glass Onion” saw it take a different path. The sequel had a limited theatrical run, earning $13 million before becoming available for streaming, a move that stirred some debate among industry observers.
Beyond the “Knives Out” franchise, Johnson’s creative plate remains full. He is currently developing the second season of his Peacock mystery series “Poker Face,” starring Natasha Lyonne. Additionally, Johnson and his producing partner Ram Bergman have secured a two-picture deal with Warner Bros., ensuring that his distinctive storytelling will continue to captivate audiences in various formats.
With “Wake Up Dead Man,” Rian Johnson promises to deliver another captivating mystery, blending his love for the genre with innovative twists and turns. As production gears up, fans eagerly await the next chapter in Benoit Blanc’s enigmatic journey.
