As of today, there are two Knives Out movies: Knives Out (2019) and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022). However, the story doesn’t end there, with a confirmed third installment in development.
The Knives Out Phenomenon: Beyond the Whodunit
Rian Johnson’s Knives Out wasn’t just another whodunit; it was a cultural reset. It breathed fresh life into the genre with its sharp wit, social commentary, and compelling characters. The success of the first film was a testament to its innovative storytelling and stellar cast. Its sequel, Glass Onion, built upon this foundation, solidifying the Knives Out franchise as a critical and commercial darling. Understanding the factors contributing to this success is crucial to appreciating the significance of the franchise and its future.
The Appeal of Benoit Blanc: More Than Just a Detective
At the heart of the Knives Out universe is Benoit Blanc, masterfully portrayed by Daniel Craig. He’s not your typical brooding, troubled detective. Blanc is flamboyant, observant, and possesses a unique charm that sets him apart. His methods are unorthodox, often relying on keen observation and a deep understanding of human nature rather than brute force deduction. This distinct personality and approach are significant factors in the series’ appeal.
Social Commentary as a Narrative Device
Knives Out and Glass Onion aren’t just murder mysteries; they are sharp satires of contemporary society. They cleverly incorporate social and political commentary into their narratives, addressing themes of wealth, privilege, and the corrosive effects of unchecked power. This element resonates with audiences and elevates the films beyond mere entertainment.
Knives Out and Glass Onion: A Closer Look
While both films share the same detective, each tells a completely independent story with a new cast of characters and a fresh setting. This anthology-style approach allows for endless possibilities and keeps the franchise feeling innovative and exciting.
Knives Out (2019): The Thrombey Family Drama
The original Knives Out centers around the suspicious death of wealthy mystery novelist Harlan Thrombey. Detective Benoit Blanc is anonymously hired to investigate, navigating the complex web of relationships within the eccentric Thrombey family. The film is a masterclass in misdirection and suspense, keeping audiences guessing until the very end. The unexpected twists and turns, combined with the compelling characters, make it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022): A Tech Billionaire’s Deadly Game
In Glass Onion, Benoit Blanc finds himself on a private Greek island, invited to a murder mystery weekend hosted by tech billionaire Miles Bron. The game turns deadly when someone is actually murdered, forcing Blanc to unravel the secrets and lies within Bron’s inner circle. The film’s setting and its exploration of modern tech culture provide a fascinating backdrop for the mystery.
The Future of the Knives Out Franchise: Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
Netflix, having acquired the rights to the Knives Out franchise, has confirmed a third film, titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, currently in development. Details are scarce, but the film is expected to follow the same anthology format, featuring Benoit Blanc investigating a new case with a fresh cast of characters. The title itself offers tantalizing hints about the nature of the mystery, promising a darker and potentially more complex investigation for Blanc.
FAQs: Decoding the Knives Out Universe
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the world of Knives Out:
Is Knives Out based on a book?
No, Knives Out is an original screenplay written and directed by Rian Johnson. He drew inspiration from classic whodunits, particularly Agatha Christie novels, but the story and characters are entirely his own creation.
Will there be more Knives Out movies after Wake Up Dead Man?
While nothing is officially confirmed beyond Wake Up Dead Man, Rian Johnson has expressed his desire to continue making Knives Out movies as long as he and Daniel Craig are interested. The anthology format allows for endless possibilities, suggesting the potential for many more Benoit Blanc adventures.
Do I need to watch Knives Out before Glass Onion?
No, each Knives Out movie is a standalone story. While Benoit Blanc is the connecting thread, the cases, characters, and settings are entirely independent. You can enjoy Glass Onion without having seen the original, and vice versa.
What makes Benoit Blanc such a compelling character?
Benoit Blanc’s appeal lies in his unconventional approach to detective work, his flamboyant personality, and Daniel Craig’s charismatic performance. He’s not a gritty, world-weary detective; he’s intelligent, observant, and possesses a quirky charm that makes him both relatable and intriguing.
Where can I watch Knives Out and Glass Onion?
Knives Out is available for purchase or rental on various streaming platforms and physical media. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery is exclusively available on Netflix.
What is the significance of the titles Knives Out and Glass Onion?
Both titles are derived from musical references. “Knives Out” is a Radiohead song, while “Glass Onion” is a Beatles song. Rian Johnson often incorporates subtle nods to his favorite music and artists in his films.
How does Knives Out differ from traditional whodunits?
Knives Out distinguishes itself through its sharp social commentary, its ensemble cast of complex and morally ambiguous characters, and its unexpected twists and turns. It’s not just about solving a murder; it’s about exploring the dynamics of wealth, privilege, and dysfunctional families.
Who are some of the actors who have appeared in Knives Out movies?
The Knives Out franchise boasts an impressive roster of talent, including Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson, Toni Collette, Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista, and many more. The anthology format allows for the inclusion of fresh talent in each installment.
What are some similar movies to Knives Out if I enjoyed it?
If you enjoyed Knives Out, you might also like Clue, Murder on the Orient Express, Death on the Nile, Gosford Park, The Hateful Eight, and any film based on an Agatha Christie novel. These movies share elements of mystery, suspense, and ensemble casts in confined settings.
Does Rian Johnson have any other mystery movies planned outside of the Knives Out franchise?
While Rian Johnson is currently focused on the Knives Out franchise, he has expressed interest in exploring other genres and projects in the future. However, there are no confirmed mystery movies planned outside of the Benoit Blanc universe at this time.
Will the third Knives Out movie be set in a new location?
Given the pattern established by the first two films, it is highly likely that Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery will be set in a new and distinct location. The setting often plays a significant role in the narrative and thematic elements of the Knives Out stories.
How can I stay updated on the latest news about the Knives Out franchise?
The best way to stay informed about the Knives Out franchise is to follow reputable film news websites, subscribe to streaming service announcements from Netflix, and keep an eye on the social media accounts of Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig.