Imagine a world where every three years, a new Knives Out mystery graces our screens, keeping us on the edge of our seats. Sounds like a dream, right? But here’s where it gets bittersweet: Rian Johnson, the mastermind behind the Benoit Blanc saga, is stepping away—at least for now. While fans eagerly await the third installment, Wake Up Dead Man, set to release on November 26th, Johnson has confirmed he’s already diving into a completely new project outside the Knives Out universe.
In a recent interview with Deadline, Johnson shared, ‘I’m writing something entirely original, something different. After three *Knives Out films in a row, it feels healthy to explore new horizons.’* This news might sting for fans who’ve grown to love the franchise’s clever twists and Daniel Craig’s charismatic detective. But Johnson reassures us he’s not abandoning Knives Out entirely. As long as audiences crave more and the creative spark remains, the door is open for future installments.
And this is the part most people miss: Johnson’s ability to revitalize the mystery genre with Knives Out has been nothing short of remarkable. Each film has delivered fresh, engaging storytelling, earning critical acclaim—including our own 8/10 rating for Wake Up Dead Man. But with Johnson’s Netflix contract concluded and his focus shifting, the question looms: Can Knives Out continue without him at the helm?
While details about his next project remain under wraps, one thing’s certain: Johnson’s departure, even if temporary, leaves a void. Yet, it also sparks curiosity about what he’ll create next. Will his new venture match the brilliance of Knives Out? Or will it carve out a new niche entirely? As Wake Up Dead Man hits theaters and streaming platforms, we’ll undoubtedly hear more from Johnson and his stellar cast about the franchise’s future.
Here’s the controversial question: Is Knives Out better off as a trilogy, preserving its legacy, or should it continue evolving, even without Johnson’s direct involvement? Let’s debate this in the comments—do you think the franchise has the staying power to thrive without its original creator, or is it destined to become a relic of its own success?
