“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” is the third and latest (but hopefully not final) addition to the “Knives Out” canon, serving as a standalone sequel to 2022’s “Glass Onion.”
As usual, in addition to Daniel Craig’s southern sleuth Benoit Blanc, the film boasts an all-star ensemble cast. The story sees the aforementioned Blanc thrown into the investigation of a rough-around-the-edges Monsignor’s (Josh Brolin) apparent homicide, an impossible crime in the context of the film. Blanc, a self-proclaimed non-believer, works alongside chief suspect, boxer-turned-priest Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) to solve the crime, in what is the best pairing since the original film (with Marta and Benoit still taking that trophy).
O’Connor and Craig had no business working that well together, but I am glad they did, especially given that Benoit Blanc does not appear for the first forty minutes of “Wake Up Dead Man.” As a result, O’Connor’s Duplenticity is in large part, our story’s protagonist, a role he takes in stride. Prior to this film, I was unfamiliar with Josh O’Connor’s filmography but would very much like to see him in future works. The particular interaction with Jud and a side character was so moving it actually took me by surprise.
In fact, the dueling “Joshes” provide a powerful look into the polarity of religion. Brolin’s corrupt Monsignor Wicks is an interesting contrast to the faithful priest. This counterbalance is one that should offend neither parishioners nor atheists. As a Catholic man myself, I actually appreciated what the film had to say. “Wake Up Dead Man” actually dives in the deep end of commentary, both religious and political.
Josh Brolin, Thanos himself, of course, takes an all-star turn as the Monsignor. Though the character is obviously immoral, Brolin’s undeniable charm makes him difficult to dislike. Moving on to the character’s pivotal death, “Wake Up Dead Man” has the most compelling set-up of the three “Knives Out” movies: a victim killed in a room with no apparent exits or entrances. You know it’s solid when even the great Benoit Blanc is stumped.
Thankfully, despite being the darkest and most thematically rich of the trilogy, “Wake Up Dead Man” does not lose this momentum, even with a runtime of two-and-a-half hours. The film does an excellent job of keeping viewers on their toes; just when you think you cracked the mystery, think again!
Moving forward, the aforementioned stacked cast is likewise palpable. Among them, Academy Award nominee (but somehow not winner) Glenn Close’s Martha is a particular standout.
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” successfully expands the franchise with a compelling narrative that intertwines themes of faith and morality, all while highlighting a remarkable performance from Josh O’Connor alongside the ever-charismatic Daniel Craig. This installment not only captivates with its intricate mystery but also leaves audiences reflecting on the deeper societal commentaries woven throughout the film. Stream it now on Netflix! (I also recommend the fun corresponding game.)