Rian Johnson returns to the gothic style of his Knives Out series with Wake Up Dead Man, a winter-set whodunit that may be the best yet. After the light and playful tone of Glass Onion, this third installment leans into darker, introspective storytelling while still delivering clever twists. Johnson explores why audiences are drawn to tales of murder and betrayal, using a small religious community as the backdrop.
The story begins with young priest Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) writing a long letter asking for help. Once a boxer with a bad temper, Jud confesses to striking another priest. He faces judgment from his elders but is ultimately sent to a small-town church, Our Lady of Perpetual Grace, led by the strict Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin). Wicks has driven the church into decay with his fiery sermons and begins to undermine Jud at every turn.
The church is home to a loyal but secretive congregation. Martha Delacroix (Glenn Close) is fiercely devoted, while the silent groundskeeper Samson (Thomas Haden Church) keeps his own counsel. Other churchgoers include a lawyer hiding a secret (Kerry Washington), a troubled doctor (Jeremy Renner), a disabled cellist (Cailee Spaeny), and a fading author (Andrew Scott). Each is drawn to Wicks’ fearsome charisma and complicated influence.
Jud’s letter reveals the church’s dark history, including Wicks’ mother, who left a legacy of destruction. The absence of a replaced crucifix in the church symbolizes a deeper lack of faith, love, and community. This emptiness reflects the parish’s struggle with its own weaknesses, which Wicks exploits to assert control.
Daniel Craig finally appears as detective Benoit Blanc around the 45-minute mark. He investigates after Wicks is found stabbed in an empty sideroom—a locked-room mystery inspired by classic detective novels. The congregation’s interest in mystery books, including works by Dorothy Sayers and Agatha Christie, sets the stage for Blanc’s arrival.
Blanc’s investigation reveals the connection between Wicks’ death and Jud’s earlier conflicts. The detective navigates the complex motivations of the church members while examining the philosophical questions about faith, morality, and human curiosity. Blanc, though an atheist, demonstrates a deep understanding of people’s need for answers, which drives his work.
Unlike previous entries, Wake Up Dead Man offers fewer in-jokes and less camp, focusing instead on suspense and character development. Comedy remains, often through Blanc’s interaction with Jud, who becomes a sidekick reminiscent of G.K. Chesterton’s Father Brown. Johnson’s writing examines modernity, miracles, and belief in the impossible, giving the story both depth and wit.
Despite its darker tone, the film retains a sense of fun and cleverness. Audiences will recognize classic mystery elements, including hints of Scooby-Doo-style antics, making it engaging without losing its gothic atmosphere. The narrative balances suspense, humor, and philosophical reflection while keeping viewers invested in the mystery until the final reveal.
Wake Up Dead Man is a thrilling, intelligent addition to the Knives Out franchise. It combines a rich gothic aesthetic, a compelling cast, and thoughtful exploration of faith and curiosity. Daniel Craig’s performance as Benoit Blanc anchors the story, while Rian Johnson’s direction ensures that the audience is both challenged and entertained. This third installment successfully deepens the series’ exploration of human nature, crime, and storytelling, making it a standout in the franchise.
