The third installment of the Knives Out series, Wake Up Dead Man, is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s biggest global films of the year. Directed by Rian Johnson and starring Daniel Craig as the eccentric detective Benoit Blanc, the film will premiere in select United States theatres on November 26 before arriving on Netflix worldwide on December 12.
Theatrical screenings will last only two weeks in the United States. While this decision already feels limiting for audiences there, it is even more frustrating for Indian fans who will not get to experience the film on the big screen at all. Considering how popular Knives Out and Glass Onion were in India, the absence of a theatrical run feels like a missed opportunity.
Rian Johnson himself has spoken about his desire for more people to enjoy the mystery series in theatres. A strong cinematic setting allows audiences to fully immerse themselves in the suspense, sharp dialogue, and ensemble cast performances. Yet Netflix has chosen to keep its theatrical release strategy restricted, leaving international fans to wait until the film drops on streaming.
Wake Up Dead Man features an all star cast including Daniel Craig, Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church. With such names attached, the film is expected to be one of Netflix’s most ambitious projects.
For Indian audiences, the disappointment is understandable. Streaming remains the primary way to enjoy these films, but cinema halls would have offered a collective thrill and excitement that matches the spirit of a whodunit. India is one of the fastest growing markets for Netflix, and loyal fans here continue to show love for the franchise. By skipping theatres in India, Netflix risks alienating its most enthusiastic supporters.
Ultimately, Wake Up Dead Man will still reach millions when it releases on Netflix, but the chance to create a deeper bond with Indian audiences has been missed. For now, fans will have to wait for December to experience Benoit Blanc’s darkest mystery yet.
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