‘Knives Out’ Creators Rian Johnson and Ram Bergman on ‘Wake Up Dead Man,’ What’s Next for Franchise and Building Hollywood’s Boldest Studio

VarietyTuesday, November 25, 2025 at 10:30:29 PM
‘Knives Out’ Creators Rian Johnson and Ram Bergman on ‘Wake Up Dead Man,’ What’s Next for Franchise and Building Hollywood’s Boldest Studio
  • Rian Johnson and Ram Bergman, creators of the 'Knives Out' series, are focusing on their new project, 'Wake Up Dead Man,' under their production company T-Street Productions. The studio aims to prioritize storytelling over franchise-building, despite the success of the 'Knives Out' trilogy. Johnson and Bergman have stated that they do not view 'Knives Out' as a traditional franchise and have no plans for a prequel featuring the character Benoit Blanc.
  • This approach signifies a shift in Hollywood, where many studios prioritize franchise potential over unique storytelling. By emphasizing creativity and narrative depth, T-Street Productions seeks to carve out a distinct identity in an industry often dominated by sequels and reboots. Their commitment to original content may attract a dedicated audience looking for innovative storytelling.
  • The release of 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery' showcases Johnson's ability to blend humor with social commentary, as seen in the film's satire of religious authority. This thematic exploration aligns with broader trends in contemporary cinema, where filmmakers are increasingly addressing societal issues through their narratives. Johnson's willingness to take creative risks, such as considering bold casting choices for his series 'Poker Face,' reflects a growing desire among creators to push boundaries in storytelling.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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