Rian Johnson's Knives Out series is probably the most entertaining ongoing non-superhero franchise today. Featuring the southern accented Daniel Craig as the Sherlock Holmes-like sleuth, Benoit Blanc, the series repeatedly features a different A-list cast, in addition to some unforgettable locations. They come across as a modern version of Agatha Christie's whodunnit mysteries - but with a considerably higher elements of cinematic fun.
Third time around, Blanc is called to a New York small town rural community - more specifically, a gothic church where Father Monsignor (Josh Brolin) has been murdered. Liked by some, despised by many, his demise is a missed blessing for the locals. Among them is Jud Duplenticy (Josh O'Connor), a young priest whose own violent past haunts him. There're also Lee Ross (Andrew Scott) and Dr. Nat Sharp (Jeremy Renner), to name just a few.
Wake Up Dead Man isn't quite up to par on its two predecessors, but that is hardly a surprise. Johnson has set such a high standard that it's natural if some inspiration isn't striking where it previously has. Nonetheless, Knives Out movies are still top notch entertainment. As long as Johnson keeps inventing new mysteries and attracting the best of Hollywood's acting talent, true cinema aficionados will be there in flocks. Here hoping for at least three more installments.
☆☆☆
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