Daniel Craig wants fans of the Knives Out series to enjoy the latest sequel, Wake Up Dead Man, in theaters rather than just at home. Speaking to Variety, Craig expressed his hope that Netflix will extend the film's theatrical release, noting that fans enjoy the cinematic experience.
The previous Knives Out film, Glass Onion, received a limited one-week release in about 600 theaters before heading exclusively to Netflix. The first film grossed $312 million on a modest $40 million budget, showcasing the franchise's appeal. Given that Netflix invested $465 million in a deal with director Rian Johnson for two sequels, there's speculation Netflix may offer more extensive theatrical releases to capitalize on the franchise's popularity.
Craig's desire to see the film on the big screen aligns with what fans are asking for: a shared cinematic experience that allows them to immerse themselves in Benoit Blanc's mystery-solving adventures. Craig reprises his role as the southern-accented detective alongside a star-studded cast, including Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Glenn Close, and Jeremy Renner. While plot details remain limited, Brolin has hinted that Wake Up Dead Man feels more akin to the original Knives Out than Glass Onion.
If Netflix decides to extend Wake Up Dead Man‘s time in theaters, it could mark a shift in their release strategy, benefiting both fans and Netflix itself by bolstering the franchise's visibility.
It's exciting to see the enthusiasm for Knives Out continue, and Daniel Craig's advocacy for a wider release suggests the importance of the theater experience for fans and creators alike. The unique blend of mystery, humor, and social critique in the Knives Out series has captivated audiences, making it clear why fans are eager to watch the film in theaters. However, balancing this with Netflix's streaming-centric business model poses a challenge. While a more extended release could boost fan engagement, it remains to be seen if Netflix will depart from its usual approach to theatrical runs.
Do you think Netflix should consider a longer theatrical release for Wake Up Dead Man, or should streaming remain the main focus?
