What are Rian Johnson’s views on traditional movie theaters versus streaming platforms? How does he feel about Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos’ comments on the theater model? What is the significance of theatrical releases for filmmakers like Johnson? What steps has Netflix taken regarding theatrical releases, and how is it affecting the upcoming “Knives Out” film? What does the cast of “Wake Up Dead Man” look like, and when is its expected release?
Rian Johnson recently told Business Insider while promoting “Poker Face” Season 2 that he wants the next “Knives Out” movie, “Wake Up Dead Man,” to be released in as many movie theaters as possible. Whether Netflix delivers on this wish later this year remains to be seen. Johnson’s interview came in the wake of Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos stirring up controversy online by calling the movie theater model “outdated.”
“Obviously I don’t [agree],” Johnson said when asked to respond to Sarandos’ comment. “I love movies. I love going to see movies. But also, I have a feeling talking to Ted, it would be a different thing than one quote taken and kind of tossed at me in this context. So, I don’t want to phrase this as I’m having a proxy discussion with Ted right here.”
“I think theatrical is not going anywhere,” the filmmaker added, pointing to the recent blockbuster success of movies like “Sinners” and “A Minecraft Movie.” Johnson added: “I think we’ve seen if you put a movie people want to see in the theaters, they are going to show up for it, and that experience of being in a full house and having that experience is so important. It’s something that I love and I want more of in the world.”
Sarandos appeared at the Time100 Summit last month and noted, “we’re in a period of transition. Folks grew up thinking, ‘I want to make movies on a gigantic screen and have strangers watch them [and to have them] play in the theater for two months and people cry and sold-out shows’ … It’s an outdated concept.”
Asked specifically if the desire of filmmakers wanting to make movies “for movie theaters, for the communal experience” is “an outmoded idea,” Sarandos said, “I think it is — for most people, not for everybody. If you’re fortunate to live enough in Manhattan, and you can walk to a multiplex and see a movie, that’s fantastic. Most of the country cannot.”
Netflix broke with tradition for the release of 2022’s “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” partnering with major theater chains like AMC for the first time to give the Johnson-directed sequel a broader theatrical release. The film played in 600 movie theaters nationwide for one week about a month before its streaming launch. Netflix has not made a similar deal with a major theater chain since, although it is teaming up with Imax to give Greta Gerwig’s “Chronicles of Narnia” movie a 2026 theatrical release on Thanksgiving Day. “Narnia” will play on Imax screens for two weeks and then debut Christmas Day on Netflix.
“I want this in as many theaters for as long as possible,” Johnson said about the third “Knives Out” movie. “We’re going to push for everything we can get in terms of theatrical, because I want as many people as possible to see it in that form.”
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” is once again written and directed by Johnson. Daniel Craig returns as the detective Benoit Blanc for a new mystery that features cast members Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church. The film is set to debut in the fall.
Rian Johnson Expresses Desire for ‘Knives Out 3’ to Have a Widespread Theatrical Release
The film industry has been buzzing with excitement following the phenomenal success of Rian Johnson’s “Knives Out” franchise. After the triumph of the first installment, which garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, and the follow-up, “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” there’s immense anticipation surrounding the third chapter. Recently, Rian Johnson, the mastermind behind this inventive whodunit series, articulated his hopes for “Knives Out 3,” focusing particularly on its theatrical release and the opportunity for audiences worldwide to experience this film on the big screen.
Widespread Theatrical Release: A Priority for Johnson
In an era where streaming services dominate due to their ease of access and instant gratification, the theatrical experience is often in jeopardy. Rian Johnson has been a fearless advocate for releasing films in theaters, emphasizing the unique communal experience cinema provides. In a recent interview, he expressed his hope that “Knives Out 3” would be shown in as many theaters as possible. This sentiment not only speaks to his passion for the film industry but also highlights his understanding of the importance of human connection through shared storytelling.
“Movies are meant to be experienced together,” Johnson stated. “There’s something incredibly special about watching a film with an audience, sharing those collective gasps, laughs, and emotional reactions. The ambiance of a theater is irreplaceable.” Such a perspective is essential, especially as filmmakers adapt to the evolving landscape of film consumption. Johnson’s emphasis on theatrical experiences can serve as a rallying cry for both filmmakers and audiences who yearn for the return to traditional movie-watching environments.
The Legacy of the ‘Knives Out’ Franchise
The “Knives Out” franchise has cemented its place in contemporary cinema, largely due to its clever storytelling, sharp wit, and compelling characters. The original “Knives Out” (2019) showcased Johnson’s ability to reinvigorate the classic murder mystery genre while making it accessible to modern audiences. The film, with its ensemble cast led by Daniel Craig, became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing a perfect blend of suspense and humor, sparking discussions and theories among viewers.
Following this success, “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” continued to build momentum, with Johnson introducing a fresh ensemble and a new mystery that maintained the franchise’s signature style. Each film not only captivates audiences but also invites them to engage more deeply by unraveling the intricacies of the plot.
The Importance of Theatrical Windows
Johnson’s desire for a broad theatrical release for “Knives Out 3” plays into a larger conversation about theatrical windows—the time frame between a film’s release in theaters and its availability on streaming platforms or for digital purchase. The pandemic has shifted the industry’s dynamics, but many filmmakers continue to advocate for longer theatrical windows. Johnson is among those who believe that a film’s impact is often greater when it has the space to thrive in theaters first.
In his vision, “Knives Out 3” should not only benefit from a substantial theatrical rollout but should also capitalize on the excitement generated by this unique experience. By ensuring that audiences first see it in theaters, Johnson hopes to create an atmosphere ripe for discussion and engagement, reminiscent of the fervor surrounding classic mystery films.
A Call to Action for Audiences
The release strategy for films from major studios has been a topic of heated debates. As streaming services become more prevalent, audiences have gradually adapted to watching films from the comfort of their homes. However, Johnson’s passion for cinema invites audiences to reconsider their viewing habits. “When a movie is made for the theater, it has a rhythm and energy that just doesn’t translate the same way on a small screen,” he remarked.
Johnson’s commitment to promoting theatrical experiences can serve as a catalyst for audiences to venture back into theaters, support films that prioritize unique storytelling, and feel a sense of unity once again. He’s not merely advocating for viewers to return to theaters; he’s inviting them into a larger conversation about the value of cinematic experiences.
Looking Ahead
As fans eagerly await “Knives Out 3,” Rian Johnson’s enthusiasm for a widespread theatrical release is emblematic of the shifting climate in filmmaking. The anticipation surrounding Johnson’s next mystery narrative, combined with his stand for traditional cinematic experiences, creates positive momentum for the franchise. His focus on ensuring that audiences experience the film in theaters could reshape how similar films are distributed in the future, highlighting the significance of shared storytelling.
In conclusion, Rian Johnson’s vision for “Knives Out 3” underscores a vital message: the magic of cinema thrives best in theaters. As audiences gear up for another captivating mystery from the mind of Johnson, they have the opportunity to engage not only in the storyline but also in the broader dialogues surrounding the future of film itself. In a world where accessibility often trumps the traditional, Johnson’s commitment to theatrical releases serves as a refreshing reminder of what cinema can be—a communal experience that leaves a lasting impact on its audience.
Rian Johnson has expressed a desire for “Knives Out 3” to have a wide theatrical release. He aims for it to be accessible in as many theaters as possible, making it a priority for the film’s distribution strategy. This aligns with his belief in the importance of the cinematic experience for audiences.