The 69th BFI London Film Festival opened on a dazzling note with the highly anticipated screening of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, the latest installment in Rian Johnson’s acclaimed Knives Out series. Hosted at the iconic Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, the event drew a glittering assembly of cinema’s finest talents, including the much-celebrated filmmaker Greta Gerwig, whose surprise appearance was one of the evening’s highlights.
Johnson’s third Knives Out film brings together an all-star cast featuring Daniel Craig reprising his role as the charismatic detective Benoit Blanc, alongside Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Jeremy Renner, Mila Kunis, Kerry Washington, and Andrew Scott. The murder mystery is set against the intriguing backdrop of a rural church where the fiery Monsignor Jefferson Wicks meets his untimely death. Blanc teams up with the young priest Jud Duplenticy, played by O’Connor, to unravel the complex web of secrets surrounding the crime.
This new whodunit is noted not only for its star-studded lineup but also for its genre-bending approach that breathes fresh excitement into the beloved series. Critics have welcomed the film’s clever narrative twists and engaging performances, with Deadline’s Damon Wise describing it as an “intelligent gothic delight” that maintains the signature wit and suspense fans expect.
The festival gala also boasted a remarkable guest list beyond the film’s cast. Greta Gerwig, fresh off her billion-dollar success with Barbie, captivated attendees as she enjoyed the screening alongside actress Emma Mackey. The evening also featured appearances by legendary composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and celebrated director Edgar Wright, adding to the event’s star power and festive atmosphere.
Wake Up Dead Man will have a limited theatrical release starting November 26, followed by its streaming debut on Netflix on December 12. Meanwhile, the London Film Festival runs through October 19, spotlighting diverse voices and innovative filmmakers pushing the art form in exciting new directions.
Gerwig’s presence at the festival underscores her growing influence in contemporary cinema, not only as a director and writer but also as a passionate supporter of cinematic storytelling. Her attendance at such a high-profile event marks a significant cultural moment, merging mainstream blockbuster success with the vibrant, creative spirit of the film festival circuit.
As London once again proves to be a vibrant hub for film enthusiasts worldwide, the kickoff with Knives Out and guests like Greta Gerwig promises an unforgettable lineup that celebrates the magic of movies in all their thrilling forms.
