Wake Up Dead Man on Netflix: Daniel Craig and Josh O’Connor save an improvised scene in editing

The third installment of Knives Out promises to be spicy. On Netflix in 2025, Wake Up Dead Man brings back Daniel Craig and a new gallery of suspects. However, there’s one intriguing detail: a key scene is said to have been improvised.

An improvised scene that changes the dynamic

On set, Daniel Craig and Josh O’Connor played beyond the script. In their own words, they improvised a decisive interaction. They had to convince Rian Johnson to keep her.

The director likes lively actors, but keeps things consistent. In a Netflix production, rhythm counts. Consequently, the team tested the scene over several takes.

Without giving too much away, the moment reveals a flaw in Benoit Blanc. It also establishes a more nuanced balance of power between the two characters. In short, this choice enriches the reading of the crime.

“We fought to keep it, because it told the truth about them.”

Why improvisation can elevate a detective story

Improvisation gives oxygen to tightly framed thrillers. A genuine reaction can surprise the viewer. Netflix subscribers expect this thrill of uncertainty.

However, improvisation is not completely improvised. The stage cues remain clear, then the actor modulates the intention. In this way, surprise remains controlled.

• Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is the official title.
• Daniel Craig reprises his role as Benoit Blanc.
• Rian Johnson directs and writes the screenplay.
• Targeted release in 2025, with a worldwide platform launch.
• An improvised scene was kept after insistence.

Rian Johnson, keeper of tone and tempo

Since Glass Onion, the saga has been progressing under a broadcasting agreement with Netflix. The framework is clear, and the game can remain nimble. Also, the director protects the tone before any set tricks.

Editing remains the ultimate judge. Johnson also looks for clarity before the wink. Consequently, improvisation only survives if it serves the enigma.

He multiplies short takes to conserve energy. He also reframes the camera to follow a winning idea. In this way, the team locks in continuity.

Daniel Craig and Josh O’Connor, a tense duo

Craig now knows Benoit Blanc’s every move. Josh O’Connor, on the other hand, brings a fresh nervousness that shakes up the codes. Their friction promises a cat-and-mouse game worthy of a Netflix release.

Their improvisation is aimed at emotional truth. It also avoids the cliché of the caricatured suspect. As a result, the audience will feel closer to the issues at stake.

What this means for whodunit fans

Attention to detail becomes strategic for the Netflix release. For example, a voice inflection can become a clue. What’s more, a restrained gesture can mask an intention.

Marketing will keep it a secret until the launch. From now on, the rumor surrounding this scene will fuel curiosity. In short, everyone will be looking for the exact moment in the film.

For the saga, it’s a promise of freshness without betraying the recipe. At the same time, this measured freedom builds trust with loyal audiences. Expectations are high, and Netflix is banking on this momentum.

• Netflix