“Wake Up Dead Man”: A Knives Out Mystery – Daniel Craig’s Return and the Gothic Murder Case

The world of modern whodunits is about to expand again with the release of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, the highly anticipated third installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed murder-mystery film series. Actor Daniel Craig reprises his role as the brilliant yet quirky detective Benoit Blanc, who has become one of the most iconic cinematic sleuths of recent years.

Following the success of Knives Out (2019) and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022), fans have been eager for another tale of suspense, misdirection, and star-studded performances. Netflix recently unveiled the full-length trailer for the film, giving viewers their first real glimpse of the Gothic-inspired mystery awaiting them.

This time, the story moves away from the cozy mansion of the first film and the island paradise of the second, instead centering on a Victorian Gothic chapel where a chilling murder shatters the peace of a congregation.

A Gothic Setting for a Modern Mystery

One of the most striking elements of the new film is its setting. While Knives Out drew inspiration from classic Agatha Christie country estates and Glass Onion embraced a sun-soaked billionaire’s island, Wake Up Dead Man takes audiences into darker territory.

The trailer reveals sweeping shots of a forest cemetery, narrow pathways lit by candlelight, and the looming spire of a Gothic chapel. The film’s centerpiece is the mysterious Church of the Holy Innocents, a Victorian-era building designed by architect Sir Arthur Blomfield in 1873.

Located in Epping Forest, just outside London, the chapel provides the perfect backdrop for an eerie and atmospheric crime story. Stained-glass windows, stone walls, and shadowed corners heighten the Gothic tone, promising a tale that feels both timeless and unsettling.

The All-Star Cast of Wake Up Dead Man

As with the previous films, Rian Johnson has assembled an ensemble cast of Hollywood heavyweights. While Daniel Craig anchors the film as Benoit Blanc, the supporting roles add depth, intrigue, and the promise of memorable performances.

• Josh O’Connor (Challengers) takes on the role of priest Jud Duplenticy, whose arrival sparks tension in the congregation.

• Josh Brolin (No Country for Old Men) portrays Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, the central murder victim whose mysterious death sets the story in motion.

• Mila Kunis plays Geraldine Scott, the local police chief who reluctantly teams up with Blanc to solve the impossible crime.

• Glenn Close, an eight-time Academy Award nominee, joins the cast, bringing gravitas to the already star-studded lineup.

• Kerry Washington, Thomas Hayden Church, Jeremy Renner, Andrew Scott, Daryl McCormack, and Cailee Spaeny round out the ensemble.

The diverse and acclaimed cast ensures that audiences will be kept guessing as to who might be hiding secrets, motives, or lies.

What’s the Plot of Wake Up Dead Man?

The trailer lays out the central mystery: the shocking murder of Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Brolin). Following a sermon, the priest walks into a sealed concrete box in front of his congregation. Moments later, he is discovered dead inside—a crime seemingly impossible under the circumstances.

Enter Detective Benoit Blanc, summoned to untangle a case with no obvious suspects and no clear solution. Blanc, known for his colorful Southern charm and razor-sharp intellect, soon partners with Police Chief Geraldine Scott (Kunis) to investigate.

As Blanc explains in the trailer:

“A man gives a sermon. He then, in plain sight of everyone, walks into a sealed concrete box. Thirty seconds later, that man is lying dead. A classic, impossible crime.”

The impossible crime trope, reminiscent of classic mystery literature, adds to the intrigue. As always with Johnson’s writing, viewers can expect plenty of twists, red herrings, and revelations leading to a shocking conclusion.

Rian Johnson’s Return to the Director’s Chair

Rian Johnson, who both writes and directs, is once again steering the franchise. Having earned two Oscar nominations for his work on the first two films, Johnson has solidified his reputation as a master of modern mystery storytelling.

In interviews, Johnson has expressed his desire to keep each film unique in tone, style, and setting while maintaining the central thread of Benoit Blanc’s character. From cozy mansion intrigue to island satire, and now to Gothic crime, Johnson’s versatility ensures the series remains fresh while honoring the traditions of classic whodunits.

Where Was Wake Up Dead Man Filmed?

Much of the film was shot in Epping Forest, a historic woodland between London and Essex. Fans and local press quickly identified the filming location as the Church of the Holy Innocents, a 19th-century chapel known for its Gothic architecture.

The forested landscapes and stonework of the chapel provide a rich, atmospheric backdrop that contrasts sharply with the sun-drenched modernism of Glass Onion. The filming choice signals a return to a darker, moodier aesthetic, perfectly suited for a tale of faith, secrecy, and murder.

When Will the Film Be Released?

Audiences won’t have to wait too long. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is set for a limited theatrical release beginning November 26, 2025. The film will run in theaters for two weeks, giving fans a chance to experience the mystery on the big screen.

After the theatrical window, the movie will arrive on Netflix on December 12, 2025, where subscribers worldwide will be able to stream it.

This hybrid release model follows the strategy used for Glass Onion, which saw significant success both in theaters and on streaming.

Why This Installment Feels Different

Each Knives Out film brings its own flavor, and this one promises to stand apart.

• Tone: With its Gothic setting, the film leans into darker, more haunting territory.

• Mystery structure: The “impossible crime” framework adds a classic detective fiction feel.

• Setting: The Victorian chapel and surrounding cemetery emphasize atmosphere and symbolism.

• Themes: The film explores faith, secrecy, and the duality of public versus private personas.

These differences suggest that while audiences will enjoy the familiar cleverness of Benoit Blanc, they’ll also experience a fresh narrative style.

Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc: An Iconic Role

Daniel Craig, long known as James Bond, has reinvented himself with the role of Benoit Blanc. His portrayal combines humor, wit, and eccentricity, making Blanc one of the most beloved detectives since Hercule Poirot or Sherlock Holmes.

Craig has spoken about his excitement in returning to the role, noting how each new film allows him to explore Blanc’s quirks and intelligence in different settings. For fans, Craig’s performance is reason enough to look forward to the movie.

The Legacy of the Knives Out Series

Since its debut in 2019, the Knives Out series has revitalized the murder-mystery genre. Blending traditional whodunit mechanics with modern themes and humor, the films have appealed to audiences worldwide.

• Knives Out earned critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.

• Glass Onion continued the momentum, expanding the franchise’s reach through Netflix.

• Wake Up Dead Man aims to cement the trilogy as one of the defining mystery franchises of the 21st century.

With Johnson at the helm and Craig leading the cast, expectations are high.

Final Thoughts

Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases of 2025. With a Gothic setting, a star-studded cast, and a mystery built on the foundation of an “impossible crime,” the film promises to deliver suspense, surprises, and the clever storytelling that fans have come to expect.

Whether you’re drawn by Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc, the atmospheric setting of a Victorian chapel, or the ensemble of acclaimed actors, this installment will undoubtedly be a highlight of the year’s cinematic calendar.

Mark your calendars: November 26, 2025 for theaters and December 12, 2025 for Netflix. Until then, the mystery remains sealed—just like the concrete box at the heart of the story.