Rian Johnson’s ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ Premieres with Star Wars Twist

BREAKING: Rian Johnson’s highly anticipated film, Wake Up Dead Man, officially premiered on Netflix today, December 1, 2025, and it’s already generating buzz for its clever references and sharp humor. The latest installment in the Knives Out franchise features Daniel Craig reprising his role as detective Benoit Blanc, alongside a star-studded cast including Josh Brolin and Daryl McCormack.

The film has quickly emerged as a must-watch for the holiday season, showcasing an inventive plot filled with unexpected twists. One standout moment occurs when the character Cy, played by McCormack, makes a tongue-in-cheek reference to Star Wars, drawing laughter from audiences and critics alike. As Cy discusses potential fame with his father, Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, he quips, “Like in Star Wars?” to which Wicks’ associate responds with bemusement, “I think you mean Empire, but we’ll let it go.”

This comedic moment is not just for laughs; it cleverly nods to Johnson’s past work on Star Wars: The Last Jedi, where fan interpretations sparked widespread debate. The layered humor reflects Johnson’s style and invites viewers to engage with the film on multiple levels.

The film’s release comes at a pivotal time for Netflix, which is expanding its library with original content that captures diverse audiences. With films like Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein and Jay Kelly starring George Clooney also streaming, Wake Up Dead Man stands out as a highlight of their 2025 offerings.

As viewers dive into this film, Johnson’s deft storytelling promises to resonate deeply, especially for fans of both the Knives Out series and the Star Wars saga. Expect plenty of discussions around this film’s themes and humor in the coming weeks.

What’s Next? As the holiday season progresses, stay tuned for audience reactions and critical reviews that will shape the narrative around Wake Up Dead Man. The film is already trending, and viewers are encouraged to join the conversation on social media. Don’t miss out on one of the best films of 2025—stream it now on Netflix!