'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery' is a witty, soulful satire of pulpit power

Los Angeles TimesTuesday, November 25, 2025 at 11:00:00 AM
  • Rian Johnson's latest film, 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,' features Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc, who investigates the murder of a corrupt monsignor played by Josh Brolin, showcasing a sharp satire of religious authority. The film has been praised as Johnson's best entry in the 'Knives Out' series to date.
  • The film's premiere highlights Johnson's continued success in the mystery genre, reinforcing his reputation as a filmmaker capable of blending humor with critical social commentary, particularly regarding institutional power.
  • Johnson and producer Ram Bergman have emphasized that they do not view 'Knives Out' as a franchise, indicating a unique approach to storytelling that prioritizes individual narratives over a cohesive series, which may influence audience expectations and future projects.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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