Wake Up Dead Man (2025)
Directed by Rian Johnson
[Rated PG-13] 2hr 24min
★★★★½
Wake Up Dead Man is a murder mystery film and is the third standalone entry in Rian Johnson’s Knives Out film series. It centers around the seemingly impossible murder of a Catholic priest that initially appears to have no real killer. However, detective Benoit Blanc soon arrives at the scene of the crime to determine who actually committed the murder and figure out how they did it before the police can act on their hasty conclusions.
The first Knives Out is an excellent film, and this latest installment is even better as it perfectly utilizes the murder mystery format to critique the friction between religion, community, politics, wealth, and identity that is prevalent in modern society. What starts as a simple task with a younger priest being relocated to assist a small church in a secluded town quickly becomes a difficult undertaking as he finds that the older priest has developed a hostile environment in order to maintain control over the entire congregation. The murder that occurs then causes all the underlying struggles of the churchgoers to come to the forefront through the investigation that follows, which the narrative thoroughly explores as a microcosm for many of the sociocultural issues currently plaguing of our society. The entire cast is great, especially Josh O’Connor, as his portrayal of an earnest priest feels genuine and believable while effectively contrasting with Josh Brolin’s selfish and vindictive priest. The mystery itself is very complex and compelling with twists and turns that keep the audience guessing without resorting to cheap tricks that would artificially prolong the mystery. Every element has a purpose, and it all comes together in a narratively and thematically satisfying conclusion.
I highly recommend Wake Up Dead Man to anyone who enjoys mystery films. The excellent story enhances the mystery elements and vice versa, making this a brilliant movie all around. Along with its striking cinematography and score, the film creates a dark, oppressive atmosphere that’s perfect for the theatrical experience.
Wake Up Dead Man is now playing in theaters and is currently available to stream on Netflix. Click here to watch the Official Teaser.
– Review by Will Hopper