Wake Up Dead Man: Knives Out . Rian Johnson has done it again. The celebrated filmmaker behind the Knives Out saga has returned with the third installment, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, and it’s already causing a stir in the cinematic world. The film has officially opened to a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, a feat very few movies achieve, particularly before their wide release. Critics have praised the movie’s sharp storytelling, clever twists, and Daniel Craig’s unforgettable performance as Detective Benoit Blanc.
This rare achievement instantly positions the film as one of the most anticipated releases of the year. The mystery genre, often considered niche compared to action blockbusters or superhero epics, is thriving under Johnson’s creative touch. By blending classic whodunit elements with a modern sensibility and social commentary, the director has transformed the Knives Out series into a cultural phenomenon.
Audiences will first get a chance to experience the intrigue when the film hits select theaters on November 26, before becoming available to Netflix subscribers worldwide on December 12. This hybrid release strategy mirrors the rollout of Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery in 2022, which saw enormous success both in theaters and on streaming.
A Mystery That Keeps Audiences Guessing
At the heart of Wake Up Dead Man is another brilliantly layered case for Benoit Blanc. While official plot details have been kept under wraps, early reviews hint at a darker, more suspenseful story compared to its predecessors. Johnson appears to be taking the franchise in a fresh direction, leaning into gothic overtones and more psychologically intense character dynamics.
The title itself suggests a tale with heavier themes of mortality, secrecy, and betrayal. Much like the first two films, viewers can expect a large ensemble cast filled with both established stars and rising talents. Each character is carefully written to serve as both a potential suspect and a crucial piece of the mystery puzzle.
Critics have noted that the screenplay balances humor and tension beautifully, never allowing the film to become predictable. Johnson is known for subverting expectations, and Wake Up Dead Man reportedly delivers several shocking revelations that will keep audiences talking long after the credits roll. This ability to craft an engaging mystery without relying on clichés is exactly why the franchise has achieved such critical acclaim.
Anticipation for a Global Release
The combination of an exclusive theatrical preview and a Netflix worldwide launch ensures that Wake Up Dead Man will capture both dedicated cinephiles and casual streaming audiences. Theatergoers will have the opportunity to enjoy the film on the big screen, where its visual details and atmosphere can be fully appreciated, while Netflix’s vast reach guarantees that millions will join the conversation.
The rare 100% Rotten Tomatoes score sets expectations sky-high, and if Johnson’s track record is anything to go by, those expectations will be met—and possibly surpassed. With its blend of gripping mystery, thought-provoking themes, and a masterful central performance from Daniel Craig, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is shaping up to be a defining cinematic moment of 2025. Wake Up Dead Man: Knives Out
