Wake Up Dead Man: Daniel Craig’s New Knives Out Mystery Opens London Film Festival 2025

Well, well, well… looks like our favourite Southern-drawling detective is bringing his peculiar brand of sleuthing back to the big screen! The London Film Festival just dropped an absolute bombshell: Rian Johnson’s “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” will kick off their 2025 programme, and cor blimey, what a cast they’ve assembled!

Benoit Blanc Returns: But Not As We Know Him

Remember when we first met Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc in that gorgeous Massachusetts mansion? I distinctly recall spilling my popcorn during that brilliant donut hole monologue. But this time, Johnson’s promising something properly different. “The goal is to strike out in a completely new direction tonally and thematically,” he teased in 2023, and honestly? I’m properly chuffed about it.

The new cast is giving us serious Oscar-bait vibes: Josh O’Connor (fresh off his triumph in “The Crown”), the legendary Glenn Close (who’s apparently sporting a wicked new accent for this one), Josh Brolin (bringing his signature intensity), and Mila Kunis (in what’s being whispered about as her meatiest role yet).

A Fresh Take on the Murder Mystery Genre

While the previous Knives Out films tipped their hat to Agatha Christie, “Wake Up Dead Man” seems determined to carve its own path. Inside sources suggest we’re looking at something darker, more atmospheric – less country house cosy, more psychological thriller. But don’t worry, Blanc’s signature wit remains razor-sharp as ever.

London Film Festival’s Boldest Opening Yet

Landing this premiere is a massive coup for the London Film Festival. Having followed the festival for years (remember that rainy opening night for “The King’s Speech”?), this feels like a perfect marriage of British prestige and Hollywood glamour. The festival’s artistic director called it “a watershed moment for British cinema celebration,” and honestly? They’re not wrong.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

When can I watch Wake Up Dead Man?

The film premieres at the London Film Festival in October 2025, with a wider UK release expected the following week. International rollout dates are yet to be confirmed.

Do I need to watch the previous Knives Out films first?

While each Knives Out mystery stands alone, watching the previous films will help you appreciate Blanc’s character evolution and Johnson’s clever subversion of mystery tropes.

What’s different about this Knives Out film?

Director Rian Johnson has emphasized this installment will take a darker turn, moving away from the traditional whodunit format while maintaining the series’ signature wit and social commentary.

The Bottom Line

With “Wake Up Dead Man,” the Knives Out franchise isn’t just serving up another mystery – it’s revolutionizing the genre. Between the stellar cast, Johnson’s bold new direction, and Craig’s beloved detective, this might just be the most anticipated premiere of 2025. Better start planning your London Film Festival outfit now, because this is one red carpet you won’t want to miss!

Share your theories about the new mystery in the comments below – just what could that cryptic title “Wake Up Dead Man” be hinting at?