Rian Johnson Advocates for Theatrical Release of ‘Wake Up Dead Man’
Rian Johnson, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the upcoming Knives Out sequel titled Wake Up Dead Man, has recently expressed his desire for the film to be showcased in theaters extensively. In an interview with Business Insider, he emphasized the importance of the cinema experience, especially in today’s evolving entertainment landscape.
Johnson’s Show of Support for Theatrical Releases
While promoting the second season of Poker Face, Johnson addressed comments made by Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, who described the traditional movie theater model as “outdated.” Johnson stated, “Obviously I don’t [agree]. I love movies. I love going to see movies.” His remarks highlight a growing divide between filmmakers who cherish the communal aspect of theater-going and industry executives exploring alternative distribution models.
The Current State of Theatrical Exhibitions
Johnson argued that the theater experience remains vital for audiences. He pointed to recent blockbuster successes like Sinners and A Minecraft Movie as evidence of public demand for quality films in theaters. “If you put a movie people want to see in the theaters, they are going to show up for it,” he noted, illustrating the enduring appeal of shared movie experiences.
Contrasting Perspectives from Industry Leaders
In contrast, Sarandos has indicated that the traditional cinema experience may not resonate with all audiences, stating, “Folks grew up thinking… it’s an outdated concept.” He acknowledged that while some individuals enjoy cinematic releases, many do not have easy access to theaters, particularly those in more remote areas.
Netflix’s Theatrical Experimentation
Reflecting on Netflix’s strategy, the company broke new ground with the theatrical release of Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery in 2022, collaborating with major chains like AMC for a limited run. Johnson is hopeful that Wake Up Dead Man will receive similar treatment, asserting, “I want this in as many theaters for as long as possible.”
What to Expect from ‘Wake Up Dead Man’
Scheduled for release this fall, Wake Up Dead Man will once again see Daniel Craig reprising his role as detective Benoit Blanc. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church. Johnson’s commitment to maximizing the film’s theatrical reach underscores the importance he places on collective viewing experiences.
As the film industry navigates changing consumer habits, Johnson’s passion for cinema remains a powerful reminder of the unique joy found in sharing stories on the big screen.