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‘Wake Up Dead Man’ Review: A Flawed Yet Ambitious ‘Knives Out’ Mystery

Source: ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ review: The new ‘Knives Out’ mystery struggles beneath its ambition (2025-12-02)

In the latest installment of Rian Johnson’s ‘Knives Out’ series, ‘Wake Up Dead Man,’ the film attempts to blend sharp wit, intricate mystery, and social satire, but struggles beneath its grand ambitions. While the series has captivated audiences with detective Benoit Blanc’s eccentric charm, this third entry feels overstuffed, with a script that falters amidst its complex themes of faith, power, and corruption. Despite its flaws, the film remains entertaining, showcasing Johnson’s flair for creating outlandish characters and twisty plots. Since the original ‘Knives Out’ in 2019, which grossed over $312 million on a $40 million budget, the franchise has become a lucrative venture for Netflix, which paid nearly half a billion dollars for two sequels. ‘Glass Onion’ (2022) was praised for its cleverness and star power, and ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ continues to push the boundaries of the genre, albeit with mixed results. Critics note that Johnson’s enjoyment in crafting elaborate mysteries is evident, but the film’s overambition leads to pacing issues and underdeveloped subplots. Recent developments in the franchise include Netflix’s strategic investment in high-profile mystery films, aiming to dominate the genre on streaming platforms. The series’ success has also influenced other filmmakers to explore similar blendings of comedy, satire, and mystery, with some critics arguing that the ‘Knives Out’ formula has set a new standard for modern whodunits. Additionally, the franchise’s impact extends beyond entertainment; it has sparked discussions about the portrayal of social issues within genre films, reflecting broader cultural conversations. Furthermore, the series has contributed to the resurgence of interest in detective stories, inspiring new adaptations and original works across television and streaming services. Rian Johnson’s commitment to expanding the universe has led to rumors of future sequels and spin-offs, with fans eager to see how Blanc’s character evolves amid increasingly complex narratives. The franchise’s influence is also evident in the rising popularity of ensemble casts and high-concept mysteries, which are now staples in contemporary entertainment. In conclusion, while ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ may not fully meet the high standards set by its predecessors, it exemplifies the ongoing evolution of the mystery genre in the streaming era. Its ambitious scope and star-studded cast highlight the potential for innovative storytelling, even as the film reminds viewers of the importance of tight scripting and focused narratives. As Netflix continues to invest heavily in the franchise, the future of ‘Knives Out’ promises more twists, more stars, and perhaps, more of the sharp wit that made the series a standout in modern cinema.

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