WHAT WENT WRONG REVIEW: Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
Dec 12, 2025
Chris and Lizzie dive into Rian Johnson's latest film, unearthing its surprising themes around faith and critique of organized religion. They spotlight standout performances by Josh O'Connor and Daryl McCormack while dissecting pacing issues and a tonal shift that leaves some viewers unsatisfied. The duo debates the film's political commentary, the challenges from streaming deals on the industry, and how the movie deviates from traditional ensemble mysteries. Spoilers abound as they reveal flaws in the murder setup, ultimately unpacking the deeper moral messages woven throughout.
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Episode notes
Genre Bending Over Puzzle Focus
- Rian Johnson's Knives Out series blends whodunit mechanics with larger thematic aims beyond the mystery.
- The hosts see Wake Up Dead Man leaning more into faith and institutional critique than a tight puzzle.
Slow Burn Pacing Risks Mystery Fans
- The film's first 45 minutes are slow and delay the inciting murder far later than typical whodunits.
- That pacing risks frustrating mystery fans who expect early momentum and constant clues.
Prayer Scene Changed Viewer Mind
- A scene where Bridget Everett asks Josh O'Connor's priest to pray unexpectedly moved Chris significantly.
- That human moment converted his attitude and improved his enjoyment of the back half.
