Director Rian Johnson has shared that he is contemplating ideas for a fourth installment in the popular “Knives Out” murder mystery series. This announcement comes shortly after the release of his latest film, “Wake Up Dead Man,” which became available on Netflix on December 12, 2023.
Future Plans for the Franchise
While discussing his creative process with Entertainment Weekly, Johnson described his thoughts as “basic, elemental, conceptual ideas.” He emphasized that he is in the early stages of development, mentioning, “I don’t have actual concrete ideas. I don’t have a theme yet. I don’t have a location.” Johnson aims to keep the concept vague until he is prepared to fully engage in writing the script.
Before embarking on the next “Knives Out” film, Johnson plans to direct an original project. He expressed his belief that the stories within the “Knives Out” series should reflect contemporary themes. “Part of making these movies, for me, is reacting to the present moment,” he explained. He does not want to rush the creative process, as he sees value in crafting narratives that resonate with current feelings and experiences.
A Legacy of Intricate Mysteries
Johnson launched the “Knives Out” franchise in 2019, with the first film released in theaters by Lionsgate. Following its success, Netflix acquired the rights to produce two sequels, the first of which, “Glass Onion,” premiered in 2022. “Wake Up Dead Man” debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival in September before hitting select theaters on November 26.
Johnson’s approach prioritizes creating films that are reflective of their times. He believes that each movie serves as a product of its era, contributing to the unique atmosphere of the “Knives Out” series. As he prepares for future projects, Johnson remains focused on capturing the essence of the present moment, ensuring that his films are both engaging and relevant.
Fans of the franchise can anticipate further developments as Johnson continues to refine his ideas for what promises to be another intriguing addition to the “Knives Out” saga. In the meantime, audiences can enjoy the latest installment now streaming on Netflix.
