Review: ‘Wake Up Dead Man’ Unveils Priesthood Mystery in Knives Out Style
“Wake Up Dead Man,” the latest addition to Rian Johnson’s acclaimed “Knives Out” series, delves into the complexities of priesthood. This installment offers a unique perspective on faith and leadership within the church, blending mystery with profound thematic elements.
Plot Overview
The story follows Father Jud Duplenticy, portrayed by Josh O’Connor, a former boxer turned priest. After an impulsive altercation with a deacon, Jud finds himself at a disciplinary tribunal. There, he is told that the church needs fighters to face societal challenges. However, he believes true priesthood lies in compassion, stating, “to show broken people like me the forgiveness and love of Christ.”
Setting
Set in the struggling parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude in upstate New York, Jud’s new assignment poses various challenges. The current pastor, Monsignor Jefferson Wicks, played by Josh Brolin, is described as intimidating and fervent in his preaching. He has a small yet loyal clique of wealthy parishioners, each with unique backgrounds and motivations.
- Alcoholic doctor: Nat (Jeremy Renner)
- Rigid lawyer: Vera (Kerry Washington)
- Right-wing YouTube personality: Cy (Daryl McCormack)
- Wash-up novelist: Lee (Andrew Scott)
- Famous disabled cellist: Simone (Cailee Spaeny)
- Chief disciple: Martha (Glenn Close)
The Central Conflict
The murder of Monsignor Wicks during a Good Friday service shifts the narrative. With all parishioners becoming suspects, Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, is called in to solve the seemingly supernatural crime. The film juxtaposes the stark realities of Wicks’s dogmatic approach with Jud’s compassionate priesthood.
Themes of Faith
“Wake Up Dead Man” is more than a mystery; it is a meditation on faith and leadership styles within the church. The distinction between Jud and Wicks highlights two competing visions of religious authority. Wicks embodies a model of division, shaming new parishioners who don’t conform to his strict beliefs. In contrast, Jud opts to embrace those who are marginalized.
This exploration raises fundamental questions about the nature of the church. What kind of leaders do we want? Those ready to combat the world or those willing to embrace it?
Cinematic Representation
Johnson utilizes a small-town setting to visually evoke the rich traditions of Catholicism. The film captures the beauty of rituals within the church, notably during significant moments such as Lent. The church setting itself becomes a character, encapsulating the weight of its messages through light and shadow.
In a key moment, Jud pauses the investigation for a pastoral conversation with a stranger, exemplifying his vision of true priesthood—a narrative that resonates on many levels.
Release Information
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” is currently showing in theaters, with plans for its Netflix debut on December 12. The film will likely spark discussions about the future direction of faith communities and the types of shepherds that lead them.
