Wake Up Dead Man
Rian Johnson
Directed by:
2025


I'll admit that I did not think the "Knives Out" series was going to go anywhere, especially after a relatively lackluster sequel that came out only a few years ago. However, I suddenly find myself hoping for several more Benoit Blanc films. These are great pieces of art, with actual stunning visuals, extremely timely themes and characters, and importantly, solid mysteries. The way the story is presented to the viewer is quite well done, from a long first act leading up to a satisfying conclusion. I'm giving the film a lot of credit, and it's all deserved, but that's not to say that it's perfect. The second act is a bit slow and holds out a bit too much information from the viewer, leaving the thriller aspects a tad in the dust. I feel like comparing this film to the original Knives Out is almost criminal, as that film was just so well-made in so many ways that any other modern mystery film always feels like it's missing something. But I can't really think of that many more critiques of this film, it really is just that solid. If this becomes a staple of cinema for years to come, I think I'd be quite glad.
