Knives Out 3 director Rian Johnson has opened up about his disappointment with Wake Up Dead Man‘s limited theatrical release. Following its world premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, the highly anticipated movie is currently slated to arrive in select theaters on November 26. Afterward, it will then be available for streaming on December 12 on Netflix.
What did Rian Johnson say about Knives Out 3’s limited release?
On social media, Johnson responded to fan questions concerning Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’s limited release, confirming that the movie won’t be playing in AMC theaters. This is actually in line with the recent report about Netflix’s new deal with AMC theaters, revealing Knives Out 3 is one of the streamer’s upcoming major movies that won’t be receiving a wider release “because plans couldn’t come together for a larger rollout.”
“For those asking, sadly AMC would not play the movie, it’s going to be Landmark, Alamo, and other chains,” Johnson wrote. “And it can absolutely stay in theaters after the 12/12 Netflix drop if there’s demand – it’s up to the theaters to decide.”
In addition, Johnson also assured fans that new theaters will be added soon. However, in the meantime, he encourages moviegoers who are having a hard time finding a Knives Out 3 screening around their area to just contact the manager of their local theaters and inquire about the movie’s possible showing.
“I’m as frustrated as you that it’s not everywhere, but new theaters will be added, so keep checking – and also if you’re inclined, it wouldn’t hurt to contact the manager of your local theater and (politely!) ask them if it’s coming,” Johnson replied.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is once again written and directed by Johnson. Joining Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc in the latest entry are Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church. Johnson is also producing the project alongside Ram Bergman. Since its world premiere, the movie has already received a Certified Fresh score of 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 95 reviews.
