‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ Debuts with a Stellar Rotten Tomatoes Score
Rian Johnson is back with another mystery, and it looks like he’s got another hit on his hands. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery has officially made its debut, and critics are loving it.
The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, and it currently holds a strong 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The movie is written and directed by Johnson and serves as the third film in the Knives Out series after Glass Onion in 2022.
Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc, joined by a new all-star cast that includes Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church. The film will open in theaters on November 26 before arriving on Netflix on December 12.
Critics have praised the movie for its mix of humor, mystery, and emotional depth. Many say that while it may not hit the same level as the first two films for some, it’s still one of the most entertaining entries in the franchise.
Teaser trailer ahoy! WAKE UP DEAD MAN the new Benoit Blanc mystery will be in theaters Thanksgiving and on Netflix 12/12 pic.twitter.com/Dy47suxjAD
— Rian Johnson (@rianjohnson) September 8, 2025
Reviewers have been especially impressed with Josh O’Connor, whose performance as Father Jud has been called both funny and heartfelt. Some even say this role confirms his place as a true leading man.
Daniel Craig’s return as Benoit Blanc is another highlight. Critics say he brings the same charm and wit that made the previous films so much fun. They also point out that Craig and O’Connor’s on-screen chemistry gives the story a buddy-detective feel, reminding some of classic duos like Holmes and Watson.
Rian Johnson’s direction has also been singled out for praise. Reviewers note that he handles the film’s layered mystery with confidence while exploring deeper themes like belief and doubt. Some critics even called it his best Knives Out movie yet, saying it blends an engaging mystery with a surprisingly personal story.
A mediocre Rian Johnson mystery is still a great time. Josh O’Connor’s Father Jud affirms the actor’s leading man credentials, and his ease with physical comedy is the film’s highlight.
Carmen Paddock
Craig is once again game to make us fall in line with the joy that comes from his Benoit Blanc performance, while O’Connor provides a sturdy emotional core.
Aaron Neuwirth
Johnson keeps a level head upon himself as he slowly unfolds yet another compelling mystery that, while perhaps not quite reaching the same heights as past films, is more than entertaining enough to keep you engrossed.
Jack Martin
This is easily Johnson’s best Knives Out film yet. It’s not just a great whodunnit, but he’s able to pair the mystery you’d expect, with a deeply introspective and personal look at faith which couldn’t have been easy.
Dan Tabor
Johnson has assembled his strongest cast yet and provides them with entertainingly ‘extra’ characters to inhabit — and for us to tut at. Best of all, Daniel Craig and Josh O’Connor form a sleuthing double act with shades of Holmes and Watson.
Philip De Semlyen
Overall, Wake Up Dead Man seems to have won over both fans and critics. With its sharp writing, strong performances, and smart humor, it looks like another success for Johnson and his growing Knives Out universe.
It’s great to see a mystery film series that keeps things fresh while still delivering the clever storytelling fans love. The mix of comedy and character depth is what makes these movies stand out. What about you? Do you think Wake Up Dead Man could be the best Knives Out film yet? Share your thoughts in the comments.
