‘Wake Up Dead Man’ Trailer: Daniel Craig Probes a Religious Murder in Third ‘Knives Out’

The highly anticipated third installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed ‘Knives Out’ franchise, titled “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” is gearing up for its release, with a new trailer offering a tantalizing glimpse into Detective Benoit Blanc’s latest, most perplexing case. Daniel Craig returns as the debonair Southern sleuth, this time investigating a chilling religious murder alongside a star-studded ensemble cast that includes Josh O’Connor, Jeremy Renner, and Mila Kunis, among others.

Benoit Blanc Investigates a Divine Mystery

In “Wake Up Dead Man,” audiences will once again follow the inimitable Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) as he finds himself embroiled in a perplexing murder investigation. The official synopsis hints at a “sudden and seemingly impossible murder” that leaves local police chief Geraldine Scott (Mila Kunis) without an obvious suspect. This prompts her to collaborate with Blanc, whose unique deductive skills are crucial to unraveling a mystery that “defies all logic.” The trailer spotlights a distinct religious undertone to the crime, setting it apart from the previous two installments.

A Stellar Ensemble Cast Joins the Investigation

Rian Johnson’s ‘Knives Out’ films are renowned for their intricate plots and their impressive rosters of talent, and “Wake Up Dead Man” continues this tradition with a formidable cast. The film features a diverse group of characters, each potentially holding clues—or secrets—related to the central murder. Key players include:

• Josh O’Connor as Jud Duplenticy, a priest, suggesting the pivotal role of religious themes in the narrative.
• Mila Kunis as Geraldine Scott, the local police chief, partnering with Blanc.
• Jeremy Renner as Dr. Nat Sharp, the town doctor.
• Josh Brolin as Monsignor Jefferson Wicks.
• Glenn Close as Martha Delacroix, described as a devout churchgoer.
• Thomas Haden Church as Samson Holt, the groundskeeper.
• Kerry Washington as Vera Draven, a lawyer.
• Daryl McCormack as Cy Draven, an aspiring politician.
• Cailee Spaeny as Simone Vivane, a concert cellist.
• Andrew Scott as Lee Ross, an author.

This diverse array of characters, with their varied professions and relationships to the central religious setting, promises a rich tapestry of motives and potential red herrings for Blanc to navigate.

Daniel Craig’s Enduring Detective

Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Detective Benoit Blanc has become a defining aspect of the ‘Knives Out’ series. His charming Southern drawl, meticulous attention to detail, and often theatrical methods have captivated audiences. Craig himself has expressed his enjoyment of the role, describing the trilogy as a “constant surprise” and noting the organic growth of the franchise. He has indicated an openness to continuing the character, provided the films maintain a “very, very high level” of quality. This commitment suggests that “Wake Up Dead Man” will deliver the same high-caliber mystery and character performance fans have come to expect.

Rian Johnson’s Vision Continues

Writer-director Rian Johnson, the mastermind behind the ‘Knives Out’ universe, returns to helm “Wake Up Dead Man.” Known for his clever storytelling and intricate plotting, Johnson’s vision ensures that the third film will maintain the franchise’s signature blend of humor, suspense, and unexpected twists. The trailer hints at his continued ability to craft compelling whodunits that keep viewers guessing until the very end.

Release Schedule: Theatrical Run and Netflix Premiere

“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” is set to have a limited theatrical run starting on November 26. Following its two-week exclusive run in cinemas, the film will then premiere globally on Netflix on December 12. This dual release strategy allows both cinephiles and streaming audiences to experience Benoit Blanc’s latest adventure.

Conclusion

The “Wake Up Dead Man” trailer promises another captivating and star-studded murder mystery from the ‘Knives Out’ franchise. With Daniel Craig reprising his role as the iconic Benoit Blanc and a fresh, religiously-charged plot, the film is poised to deliver a compelling narrative filled with twists and turns. The ensemble cast of familiar faces and rising stars further elevates the anticipation for what is sure to be one of the year’s most talked-about cinematic events.