Rian Johnson’s highly anticipated return to the murder mystery genre, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, has premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and early reviews are painting a picture of a film that is both a fresh take on the franchise and a departure from its predecessors. While some critics are hailing it as the best entry yet, others suggest it’s a step down, but a satisfying one nonetheless. The consensus, however, points to a darker, more emotionally resonant, and gothic-themed whodunit that tackles complex themes of faith and morality.
The film, which sees Daniel Craig reprise his role as the charmingly eccentric detective Benoit Blanc, has been praised for its bold tonal shift. Moving away from the campy, sun-soaked setting of Glass Onion, this installment embraces a more somber and confined atmosphere. Set in a small-town parish in upstate New York, the mystery unfolds following the death of a priest. Reviewers highlight a gothic-horror feel, with cinematographer Steve Yedlin’s use of light and shadow creating a haunting visual style. This darker tone has resonated with some critics, who found it a welcome evolution for the series, while others, who preferred the lighter humor of the first two films, found it to be a drawback.
A New Partner in Crime: The Rise of Josh O’Connor
One of the most widely lauded aspects of the film is the performance of franchise newcomer Josh O’Connor. Playing Jud Duplenticy, a troubled young priest and former boxer, O’Connor is singled out for his comedic timing and emotional depth. Several reviews state that he gives the best overall performance in the trilogy, serving as a poignant guide for both the audience and Benoit Blanc himself. The film reportedly dedicates a significant amount of time to the interplay between Blanc’s reliance on logic and Jud’s struggle with faith, a dynamic that adds a surprising spiritual core to the murder mystery.
While Daniel Craig’s performance as Benoit Blanc is, as always, a delight, some critics noted that his character is more subdued in this film. He doesn’t even speak in the opening act. This is seen as a strategic move by Johnson to allow O’Connor’s character to shine and to put Blanc in a position of “crisis of faith” where his usual brilliance is tested. The chemistry between the two actors is described as a high point, with their debates on religion and morality adding thematic weight to the story without sacrificing entertainment.
A Flawless Whodunit, or a Muddled Mystery?
While many reviews praise the film’s intricate plot and clever twists, a few critics have pointed out potential flaws. The large ensemble cast, which includes stars like Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Kerry Washington, and Jeremy Renner, is seen by some as being underutilized, with characters feeling more like thinly drawn red herrings than fully fleshed-out individuals. Some reviews suggest that the film’s attempt to weave in elements of politics, comedy, and religion at once can feel a bit “heavy” and “flat.”
However, even the more critical reviews concede that Johnson’s masterful storytelling keeps audiences engaged until the very end. The film is described as a “satisfying, impossible-to-predict yarn” that solidifies Johnson’s reputation as a reliable deliverer of thoughtful thrills. The general consensus suggests that while the film may not be everyone’s favorite due to its darker tone, it’s a worthy and ambitious addition to the Benoit Blanc saga.
The film is set to have a limited theatrical release on November 26 before premiering on Netflix on December 12.
Rian Johnson on How the ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ Cast Bonded on Set
This video provides an interview with the director and cast of Wake Up Dead Man, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the film.
