1. A Darker Turn for the Franchise
The trailer immediately signals a tonal shift from the playful satire of Knives Out and the vibrant extravagance of Glass Onion. This time, Rian Johnson leans into gothic suspense – dimly lit corridors, religious iconography, and a suffocating atmosphere that feels closer to a psychological thriller than a traditional whodunit. The mystery is not just about who committed the crime, but how it was even possible.
2. The Impossible Crime Setup
At the heart of the trailer is the shocking discovery: Monsignor Jefferson Wicks found dead inside a sealed concrete coffin. This “locked coffin mystery” is being hailed as one of Johnson’s boldest narrative gambits yet. It evokes classic Agatha Christie puzzles but with a modern, cinematic intensity. The trailer teases layers of conspiracy within a religious community, suggesting secrets that go far beyond a single murder.
3. Benoit Blanc’s Evolution
Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc returns with his signature southern drawl, but critics note a new emotional depth. In the trailer, Blanc appears more burdened, less flamboyant, and more determined. His eccentric humor remains, but it’s tempered by the gravity of the case. Early reactions suggest this may be Craig’s finest performance as Blanc, blending wit with vulnerability.
4. Star-Studded Ensemble
The trailer proudly showcases its powerhouse cast:
- Glenn Close — commanding and enigmatic, adding gravitas to the mystery.
- Josh Brolin — unsettling and magnetic as Monsignor Wicks, whose death sets the story in motion.
- Mila Kunis & Jeremy Renner — bringing emotional relatability and intensity.
- Kerry Washington & Andrew Scott — adding layers of intrigue and moral conflict.
5. Visuals & Direction
Johnson’s direction is bold and stylish. The trailer uses shadow-heavy cinematography, gothic architecture, and claustrophobic framing to heighten tension. Compared to the sunlit satire of Glass Onion, this film looks visually haunting, almost operatic.
6. Critical First Impressions
- Rotten Tomatoes First Reviews: “Twistier, darker, and more emotional” – possibly the best Knives Out yet.
- Festival Buzz: Critics at TIFF praised the balance of suspense and social commentary.
- Fan Reactions: YouTube breakdowns highlight the gothic tone and puzzle-box setup, calling it “Knives Out meets Sherlock Holmes with a Bond edge.”
Final Verdict
The trailer positions Wake Up Dead Man as the boldest Knives Out mystery yet – a chilling gothic puzzle powered by Daniel Craig’s strongest performance and a stellar ensemble. With its impossible crime setup and darker tone, critics are already rating it around 4.5/5 stars, calling it a potential franchise high point.