UPDATE: Writer-director Rian Johnson and star Josh O’Connor unveil groundbreaking themes of faith and religion in the highly anticipated film, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, set for release on November 26, 2025. In a revealing interview, the duo shares how their personal experiences shape the narrative, emphasizing the urgent questions surrounding belief and morality.
The film shifts focus from the wealthy elite explored in Johnson’s previous installments, Knives Out and Glass Onion, to a small village parish where the stakes are not just about murder but delve deeply into the complexities of faith. O’Connor portrays Jud Duplenticy, a young reverend entangled in the murder of Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, while Daniel Craig returns as the brilliant detective Benoit Blanc. Together, they must navigate the community’s fierce devotion and unravel an “impossible crime.”
In their conversation, Johnson reveals the philosophical core of the film: the struggle between faith and skepticism. “For me, this is what a big part of the point of writing this was,” Johnson explains, reflecting on his personal journey from Christianity to questioning his beliefs. He notes that the dynamic between Jud and Blanc symbolizes this internal conflict, making their interactions a focal point of the story.
O’Connor echoes this sentiment, stating, “I grew up Irish Catholic, going to church every Sunday,” and emphasizes how the film’s theological discussions mirror real-life conversations many face about faith. The emotional weight of these interactions promises to resonate with audiences, transforming the murder mystery into a broader commentary on belief itself.
As the plot unfolds, both Jud and Blanc confront their views on faith, leading to a deeper understanding of each other. The supporting cast, which includes Glenn Close, Jeremy Renner, and Kerry Washington, adds layers to the narrative, each character representing varied perspectives on religion and morality.
Wake Up Dead Man is not just another entry in the Knives Out series; it challenges viewers to reflect on their beliefs and the power dynamics that emerge from differing ideologies. As Johnson and O’Connor gear up for the film’s release, they invite audiences to engage with these weighty themes that are more relevant than ever.
With the clock ticking down to its release, fans eagerly await the next chapter in the Knives Out saga. Stay tuned for more updates as the film approaches its launch date. This intriguing blend of mystery and existential inquiry is sure to ignite conversations worldwide.
