Daniel Craig is back as the world’s most dapper detective in Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, a darker, gothic-tinged whodunit with a stacked ensemble and a case that begins in a church.
Few modern franchises have reshaped the murder-mystery like Knives Out. Now, writer-director Rian Johnson turns the dial to “gothic” with Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, sending Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc into his most perilous investigation yet. First reactions out of TIFF call it the darkest, most emotional entry so far, with critics praising Johnson’s twistier design and Craig’s sharpest Blanc to date.
Netflix has set a limited theatrical run before a December streaming debut, and the new teaser underscores the mood shift — more candles and confessionals, fewer sun-drenched island vibes.
Here is everything you need to know about Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery – from the plot and cast to reviews and release date. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
All the key details about Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
- Title: Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
- Format: Film
- Length: 2h 26m
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime, Comedy-Drama
- Year of release: 2025
- Director / Creator: Rian Johnson
- Main cast: Daniel Craig, Glenn Close, Kerry Washington, Josh O’Connor
- Produced by: Netflix, T-Street Productions
What happens in Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery?
Benoit Blanc is pulled into an “impossible crime” with a distinctly gothic edge. The case begins inside a small-town church, where a shocking murder rattles a tight-knit community and draws out rival motives rooted in faith, deception, and power.
Johnson leans into mood and menace this time – candlelit corridors, moral gray zones, and fewer flashy set-pieces – while preserving the franchise’s playful red herrings and verbal snap. Expect a puzzle box that rewards close attention without spoiling the fun.
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Who’s in the cast of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery?
Daniel Craig returns as Benoit Blanc, the detective whose Southern drawl and razor-sharp logic have become iconic. This time, he’s joined by a new ensemble cast including Josh O’Connor (The Crown), Cailee Spaeny (Priscilla), and Andrew Scott (Fleabag). Each brings a distinct energy, ensuring the traditional “suspect lineup” feels as fresh as ever.
As with the previous films, the supporting cast is expected to feature a mix of established stars and rising talents — all part of Johnson’s signature approach to crafting unpredictable whodunits.
Is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery based on a true story?
No. Like its predecessors, this mystery is an original creation by Rian Johnson. While the title hints at noir influences and possibly even literary references, the story is entirely fictional, designed to pay homage to classic Agatha Christie-style mysteries while reinventing them for modern audiences.
What are the reviews on Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery?
Since the film has yet to premiere, full reviews are not available. However, anticipation is enormous, given the widespread acclaim of Knives Out and Glass Onion. Critics have praised Johnson’s knack for balancing wit, suspense, and social commentary, so expectations are high that Wake Up Dead Man will deliver another clever, layered mystery.
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Where was Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery filmed?
Netflix has kept details of the filming locations under wraps, though production reportedly took place in Europe. The settings are expected to add atmosphere and visual richness, much like the opulent Greek island backdrop of Glass Onion.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery: Behind the scenes and fun facts
Rian Johnson revealed the title via a cryptic teaser in 2024, sparking online speculation.
Daniel Craig has said this entry will challenge Benoit Blanc in ways audiences haven’t seen before.
Johnson has a multi-film deal with Netflix, ensuring more Knives Out mysteries could follow.
What’s Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery like?
Expect a mix of suspense, razor-sharp humor, and gothic undertones. If you enjoyed Knives Out, Glass Onion, or even classic Agatha Christie adaptations like Murder on the Orient Express, this new mystery will scratch the same itch — with a darker twist.
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When is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery coming out on streaming?
Coming soon. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery will stream exclusively on Netflix. Release date: Wake Up Dead Man premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, and will open the BFI London Film Festival on Oct. 8. Then the film heads to select theaters starting Nov. 26, before landing on Netflix Dec. 12.2025. Watch on Netflix.
Watch the trailer
In the meantime, here’s the teaser trailer:
