Johnson defends 'Wake Up, Dead Man'

Director of third 'Knives Out' instalment says his characters are not actor-specific

LOS ANGELES:

Writer and director Rian Johnson is set to release his third 'Knives Out' mystery, 'Wake Up, Dead Man', which follows Father Jud Duplenticy, played by Josh O'Connor, who becomes the prime suspect in a murder within a small, tight-knit Catholic church community.

Returning to solve the case is franchise detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig. Johnson spoke to Reuters about the process of creating the third instalment in the series, which streams on Netflix on December 12.

Speaking about 'Wake Up, Dead Man', Johnson said it is a fitting title name. "Well, you're trying to pick a title that sounds like a good murder mystery title, a little intriguing, but also something that, once you see the movie, feels perfectly fitting. I think this title is apropos for the story," he said.

"It's important for me not to start writing until I know it's going to be the next project. I don't keep a drawer of ideas for these films," he responded, when as asked he was with the future instalments of the franchise.

Wake Up, Dead Man continues Johnson's mix of suspense, wit, and ensemble storytelling, building on the franchise's reputation for clever, character-driven mysteries. He said he does not write his character for any specific actor.

"I try not to, because that can lead to heartbreak. We're going after some of the busiest movie stars, so schedules can be tricky. If you write for someone deeply ingrained in a role and can't get them, that's tough. I try to focus on the characters first, then find the best actors to bring them to life."