Unraveling the Mystery Around 'Wake Up Dead Man'

Rian Johnson's latest creation "Wake Up Dead Man" merges elements from G.K. Chesterton’s Father Brown detective stories and John Dickson Carr’s mystery The Hollow Man, cleverly taking a dig at a political leader thriving on anger and fear. This third film in the 'Knives Out' series shifts from Greek Island to a small Catholic church in New York.

Although the film starts promisingly, it soon turns intricate and loses its initial intrigue. The film, however, boosts its appeal through Josh O’Connor's performance as a former boxer turned priest who transforms into both a murder suspect and a Watson to Benoit Blanc’s Sherlock Holmes.

Daniel Craig returns in his character of Benoit, a suave Southern gent, creating a delightful pair with O'Connor’s Father Jud. However, Blanc questions his belief in rationality as the case unfolds, somewhat receding from the spotlight. He reemerges later, delivering an acclaimed making an impact with his comical Phantom of the Opera gag.

Beyond the primary characters, the film introduces an array of interesting personas from the parish and town, including town doctor Nat Sharp, successful attorney Vera Draven, bestselling author Lee Ross, accomplished cellist Simone Vivane, failed politician Cy Draven, and longtime groundskeeper Samson Holt. We also see local police chief Geraldine Scott, who though skeptical about Blanc's investigation methods, supports him fully.

As the story unfolds, Johnson targets strongmen leaders who manipulate religion to spread hate and solidify power. Amid the ecclesiastical themes of faith, resurrection, desecration, and miracles, a murder occurs, and many hastily point their fingers at Father Jud. Enter Blanc, who isn’t so easily swayed in blaming the young priest.

Despite the film's uneven pace and less-than-optimal use of the high-profile ensemble, "Wake Up Dead Man" serves as a compelling stage for O'Connor's acting prowess. The actor has had quite the successful run this year with a string of impressive performances, further establishing him as one of the industry's most versatile and reliably excellent actors.