15 Interesting Facts About the 'Knives Out' Movies in Pop Culture

The latest installment, Wake Up Dead Man, is now playing in theaters and will debut on Netflix on December 12th. Written and directed by Rian Johnson, this third entry has been praised as a worthy successor to Knives Out and Glass Onion. Despite its limited theatrical run, its recommended to see on the big screen. Below are intriguing facts about the three films and their iconic detective, Benoit Blanc, portrayed by Daniel Craig, who clearly relishes the role.

15. Johnsons Whodunit Dream

Rian Johnson shared that he had long wanted to create a classic whodunit. Inspired by Agatha Christies novels, he aimed to craft a story that was more than a single surprise ending, challenging the traditional narrative structure of the genre.

14. The Knife Display

The first film features a striking circle of knives during the interrogation sequences. Johnson revealed that the production team initially struggled with the design until a circular industrial barbecue grate was repurposed, perfectly framing the knives like a symbolic halo.

13. Star-Studded Ensemble

The appeal of the Knives films lies partly in their all-star casts. Johnson drew inspiration from classic Christie adaptations, seeking a large, glamorous ensemble reminiscent of the big-screen mysteries he admired growing up.

12. Daniel Craigs Casting

Though British, Craig plays a Southern gentleman detective. Johnson cast him for his versatility and comic timing, noting how much Craig enjoyed the role, approaching it with the delight of a child unwrapping a gift.

11. The Accent

Contrary to speculation, Blancs Southern drawl is not based on Foghorn Leghorn. Johnson and Craig explained that it draws from historian Shelby Foote, with touches of Tennessee Williams speech patterns.

10. Blancs Inspirations

Craig and Johnson cited influences like Jacques Tatis Monsieur Hulot and Cary Grants charm in To Catch a Thief, along with period-specific Southern expressions, shaping the detectives unique voice and demeanor.

9. Comparing Humor

While Knives Out was humorous, Glass Onion leaned further into comedy, influenced by Edward Nortons tech billionaire character and his real-world counterparts.

8. Puzzle Box Introduction

The opening puzzle box sequence in Glass Onion was carefully crafted to introduce characters efficiently and entertainingly, a challenging process that parallels the effort put into the library interrogation in Knives Out.

7. Setting on the Island

Johnson chose an island setting for Glass Onion to evoke Blancs sense of being out of place, exploring unfamiliar social dynamics, which informed the storys tension and humor.

6. Predicting the Culprit

Johnson noted that audiences guessing the killer early doesnt diminish enjoyment. He structured the films so the narrative remains entertaining, whether or not the mystery is solved ahead of time.

5. Comedy, Not Parody

Knives Out is witty and self-aware but intentionally avoids parody. Johnson balanced humor with genuine murder mystery storytelling, aiming for personal resonance alongside entertainment.

4. New Characters Every Time

Aside from Blanc, each film features entirely new characters, preserving the independence of each mystery and preventing repetitive storytelling.

3. Johnson Directs Each Film

Rian Johnson has emphasized that he wants to direct all Knives Out films. If that changes, the series may not continue.

2. Muppets Crossover Rejected

Despite online fan ideas, Johnson dismissed a crossover with the Muppets, explaining that mixing Blancs world with characters who could be harmed wouldnt align with the films tone.

1. Franchise Future Uncertain

With the Netflix deal completed and Wake Up Dead Man released, the next steps for the franchise are unclear. Johnson has expressed frustration with the limited theatrical release and is cautious about subtitles or future Netflix collaborations, holding the rights to the series himself.

Author: Lucas Grant