Let’s Dive In!

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Southern detective walks into a church full of peculiar characters, then Wake Up Dead Man might be just the ticket. Rian Johnson, the mastermind behind the Knives Out franchise, serves up a mystery that’s rich in plot but a tad lacking in the usual punch.

Same Flavor, New Ingredients

So, picture this: we’ve got our charming detective, Benoit Blanc, played with flair by Daniel Craig, taking on the vibrant yet chaotic world of Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude—sounds like a setup for a punchline, right? This time, though, instead of a lavish estate filled with quirky relatives, we’re knee-deep in a clashing community filled with church folk and moral dilemmas.

Meet the Characters

What’s a mystery without a host of eccentric characters? This film throws us into the lives of Monsignor Wicks, a not-so-gentle priest sporting a glaring attitude, and his entourage that includes a mix of a recently divorced doctor (because, why not?), a religious sci-fi writer (who’s probably having more fun than he should), and a cellist hoping for a miracle cure. Yes, you read that right. Each character adds a sprinkle of chaos to the dish, creating a veritable soup of secrets and subplots.

The Plot Thickens

The story kicks off with a dramatic twist: Monsignor Wicks gets stabbed right in the middle of his Good Friday service. Cue Detective Blanc, who strolls in like he owns the place, untangling this web of suspicion while everyone desperately points fingers at the new priest, Reverend Jud Duplenticy. Jud’s a former boxer—seriously, you can’t make this stuff up—who’s wrestling with his own inner demons while trying to keep the peace. Who knew a church could have so many plot twists?

Where’s the Mystery?

Now, here’s where it gets a bit tricky. Instead of steering this ship straight into a thrilling mystery adventure, Johnson chooses to swap Blanc’s role to that of a supporting character in Jud’s tale. So while we anticipate a whirlwind of clues and red herrings, we get an in-depth look at Jud’s struggle with faith and acceptance. It’s a noble narrative shift, but hey, does this mean less fun for those of us who just want to see some good old-fashioned sleuthing?

Visually Stunning but Confusing

The film is a visual treat! Cinematographer Steve Yedlin sprinkles some serious eye candy throughout. However, while the imagery is striking, we sometimes find ourselves scratching our heads over the layout of the church. Overall, the geography of the scenes feels a little muddled—like trying to navigate a church maze after a few too many communion wines.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, Wake Up Dead Man feels like a curious mashup of mystery and introspection. Craig’s Benoit Blanc continues to shine bright, and even in a less heroic role, he delivers a delightful assortment of quirks and signature charm. Though the plot may veer into deeper waters of moral philosophy, it leaves us at the end contemplating whether we actually signed up for a sermon instead of a thriller. A little patience may be required, but for those willing to dive in? You might just find some shiny nuggets of wisdom hidden beneath the surface. Wake Up Dead Man swoops onto Netflix on December 12, 2025. Mark your calendars—it’s bound to be a wild ride!