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Rian Johnson Explores Faith and Mystery in New Film

Source: Rian Johnson on Miracles, Mystery, and His Own Faith Story in ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ (2025-11-26)

Rian Johnson, acclaimed director of the "Knives Out" trilogy and "Star Wars: The Last Jedi," delves into his personal faith journey and spiritual themes in his latest film, "Wake Up Dead Man." This film marks a departure from his usual genre, focusing on the spiritual battles within contemporary American Christianity and a man's internal struggle with faith. Johnson, who was raised in Denver and practiced Christianity deeply during his youth, now reflects on how his faith has evolved amid his success in Hollywood. The movie, set to release in theaters on November 26, 2025, and on Netflix December 12, features a star-studded cast including Daniel Craig and Josh O’Connor, and explores themes of miracles, mystery, and personal belief. In addition to his personal narrative, Johnson’s new film is part of a broader cultural conversation about faith in America, especially as religious institutions face decline and societal polarization intensifies. Recent studies indicate that only about 50% of Americans now identify with organized religion, a significant drop from previous decades, highlighting a shifting spiritual landscape. The film also coincides with a surge in spiritual but not religious (SBNR) identities, with approximately 30% of adults exploring alternative spiritual practices. Johnson’s exploration of faith is timely, resonating with a generation seeking meaning amid chaos. Furthermore, the film’s release aligns with increased interest in faith-based storytelling, which has seen a 20% rise in popularity on streaming platforms over the past year. Johnson’s own journey from devout Christian to a more questioning spiritual perspective mirrors the broader societal trend of reevaluating faith and spirituality in modern America. His nuanced portrayal of spiritual doubt and hope aims to foster dialogue about the role of faith in personal and societal transformation. As Hollywood continues to explore complex religious themes, Johnson’s "Wake Up Dead Man" stands out as a compelling reflection of faith’s enduring relevance in a rapidly changing world.

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