Key Highlights
- Rian Johnson’s “Wake Up Dead Man” continues the successful Knives Out franchise.
- The film maintains a consistent and rewarding tone while introducing new characters and themes.
- Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, remains central to the mystery-solving process.
- Josh O’Connor’s performance as a young priest is praised for its complexity and depth.
The Franchise Continues: “Wake Up Dead Man” Review
Rian Johnson, the creator of the Knives Out franchise, has once again delivered a compelling mystery film with “Wake Up Dead Man”. The movie follows Benoit Blanc (played by Daniel Craig) as he investigates an impossible murder in a small New York community.
A Winter Mystery
Set against the backdrop of winter and infused with a macabre atmosphere, “Wake Up Dead Man” is not your typical Knives Out film. Director Johnson masterfully weaves a dark sense of humor alongside themes of contemporary culture-war anxieties. The gothic title typeface adds to the chilling ambiance of the story.
The Ensemble Cast
Johnson brings together an impressive ensemble cast, each contributing their unique character and motivations. Notable performances include Josh O’Connor as Father Jud Duplenticy, a young priest with a violent past but a good heart, and Josh Brolin as the more senior and conservative Monsignor Jefferson Wicks.
Glenn Close, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Jeremy Renner also feature in supporting roles. Despite the large cast, the film feels a bit underused at times, with O’Connor’s character standing out as the central figure of the story.
Blanc’s Arc
Benoit Blanc himself undergoes his own mini-arc, learning a lesson on grace while maintaining his rational mind. Craig’s portrayal is impeccable, delivering his lines with Southern charm and wit. The film acknowledges its detective tradition by directly referencing Agatha Christie and John Dickson Carr’s works, cementing its place in the mystery genre.
Themes of Faith and Modernity
Johnson explores themes of faith and belief through his characters’ interactions within the small church community. He portrays different approaches to religion with both respect and critique, balancing the insidious forms of American Christianity with spiritual traditions of forgiveness and fellowship.
The Future of Benoit Blanc Mysteries
“Wake Up Dead Man” is a solidly satisfying whodunnit that continues the franchise’s success. Its gothic and iconoclastic nature, coupled with its dark humor and clever plot twists, make it a must-watch for fans of the series. With the possibility of many more Benoit Blanc mysteries on the horizon, audiences can look forward to more thrilling investigations.
Johnson’s patient plotting and Craig’s nuanced performance ensure that “Wake Up Dead Man” remains engaging throughout. The film is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Knives Out franchise, promising further adventures for the world’s greatest detective.
