Rian Johnson Sets Firm Conditions for Future Knives Out Films
The future of the Knives Out film series hinges on the vision of its creator, Rian Johnson. In a recent interview with Variety, Johnson expressed his firm stance regarding any potential sequels beyond the upcoming third installment. He emphasized that he alone will direct and write any further entries in the franchise, stating, “I don’t see it as IP. Each Knives Out film is something I want to make. If that stops being the case, we won’t do another one.”
Johnson’s comments come as anticipation builds for the third film, titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025. The film will be available in select US theaters starting November 26, 2025, before streaming on Netflix from December 12, 2025. The first two films in the franchise, Knives Out (2019) and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022), received critical acclaim and significant box office success.
Johnson’s collaboration with Daniel Craig, who portrays the iconic detective Benoit Blanc, remains a cornerstone of the series. The filmmaker revealed that both he and Craig are already discussing ideas for a potential fourth film, saying, “Creatively, I feel energized after making this one.” This enthusiasm indicates a strong desire to continue exploring the intricate world of mystery and intrigue that the Knives Out series has established.
Despite his passion for the franchise, Johnson has made it clear that he would not permit any other filmmaker to take the reins. He remarked, “Absolutely not. It’s mine. They’ll have to pry it out of my cold, dead hands.” His loyalty to the project extends beyond the creative process, as he believes that if Craig decides to step away from the role, it would signal the end of the series. “If Daniel stops having fun or decides he doesn’t want to do it anymore, then, as far as I’m concerned, the series is over,” he stated.
The Knives Out series has garnered attention not only for its clever storytelling but also for its ability to blend humor and suspense in a unique manner. As audiences eagerly await the release of Wake Up Dead Man, the commitment of both Johnson and Craig to the series raises questions about its future trajectory. Should Johnson’s conditions remain satisfied, fans could expect more thrilling mysteries to come.
As the landscape of cinematic franchises continues to evolve, Johnson’s approach underscores a broader trend in the industry where creators seek to maintain artistic control over their projects. The success of the Knives Out films exemplifies the potential for original storytelling in an era dominated by sequels and adaptations.
In this climate, Johnson’s insistence on preserving the integrity of his work may resonate with audiences looking for authenticity in entertainment. The future of Knives Out now rests with Johnson’s creative vision and the ongoing collaboration with Craig, as fans hope for more captivating mysteries in the years to come.
