Daniel Craig’s New ‘Knives Out’ Mystery to Open London Film Festival
Rian Johnson’s “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” to Open 69th BFI London Film Festival
The highly anticipated third installment in Rian Johnson’s Benoit Blanc detective franchise, titled “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” is set to premiere internationally as the opening night gala of the prestigious 69th BFI London Film Festival. The screening will take place at the iconic Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London, with simultaneous previews at various venues across the U.K.
Daniel Craig reprises his role as the renowned private detective, embarking on his most perilous case yet as he delves into a fresh murder mystery in an undisclosed location. Joining Craig in the star-studded ensemble cast are Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church.
This collaboration between the festival and the popular franchise marks another significant milestone. In 2022, “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” closed the 66th edition, while the original “Knives Out” debuted as the festival’s Amex Gala in 2019.
Director, writer, and producer Rian Johnson expressed his excitement about opening the BFI London Film Festival with “Wake Up Dead Man,” stating, “London is the birthplace of the golden age of detective fiction, and it’s a thrill to be back in this vibrant cinematic landscape.” The film is a product of Johnson’s T-Street banner in collaboration with producer Ram Bergman.
Kristy Matheson, BFI London Film Festival director, highlighted the joy of bringing audiences another captivating mystery from Rian Johnson. With Daniel Craig and Josh O’Connor leading the pack, the film promises an engaging experience with a mix of British and international talent both in front of and behind the camera.
The BFI London Film Festival, scheduled to run from October 8 to 19, will reveal its complete program on September 3. Following its festival premiere, “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” will be available globally on Netflix starting December 12.
