Wake Up Dead Man - Review

Vengeance for the Wicked.

Review written by Jack Aling

Wake Up Dead Man is directed by Rian Johnson and written by Rian Johnson.

The third Knives Out film follows master detective Benoit Blanc as he is drawn into the orbit of a charismatic and domineering priest and his devout congregation. When a mysterious death occurs, Blanc must navigate a web of secrets.

A return to its gothic roots, the latest Knives Out mystery introduces another group of colourful suspects as Benoit Blanc challenges faith itself after a priest is found dead.

Rian Johnson's Knives Out Trilogy are wonderful and diverse puzzle boxes - blending different genres and personalities whilst consistently keeping audiences on their toes with original and unpredictable mysteries. Wake Up Dead Man is no exception in the darkest and most introspective instalment to date.

Josh O'Connor is incredible as a young priest out of his depth, desperate to prove and redeem himself. Blanc himself feels like a supporting character as O'Connor commands the screen. The signature ensemble cast gets less to do than previous films, but screen legends

Glenn Close and Josh Brolin stand out amongst the rest, confirming their legendary status.

Despite the existential explorations of faith and death, Johnson expertly balances the scales with sharp and witty dialogue and an energetic visual style that brings a jauntiness to the film without leaning too far into satire or caricature.

I would watch dozens of these as long as Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig

have the energy to do so - but these must be experienced in a full screening to be enjoyed to their full potential.

Our verdict: 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Read more of Jack's reviews at: letterboxd.com/TheJackAling