If you’re a fan of clever murder mysteries, the Knives Out franchise is a must-watch. Created by Rian Johnson, this modern whodunit series follows the brilliant detective Benoit Blanc as he unravels intricate mysteries with star-studded casts. Wondering about the Knives Out movies in order? This guide breaks down the Knives Out movie series in chronological order, covering release dates, plots, casts, and more. Whether you’re new to the franchise or a seasoned fan, dive into the world of sharp dialogue, unexpected twists, and stylish storytelling that’s earned critical acclaim and a massive following.
Overview of the Knives Out Franchise
The Knives Out series, crafted by writer-director Rian Johnson, reinvents the classic murder mystery with a modern twist. Launched in 2019, the franchise centers on detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, and features standalone stories inspired by Agatha Christie-style whodunits. As of 2025, the series includes three films: Knives Out (2019), Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022), and Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (2025). Each film boasts unique settings, A-list casts, and intricate plots, making the Knives Out series a standout in the mystery genre.
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Knives Out Movies in Chronological Order
The Knives Out movies in order follow their release dates, as each film is a standalone story with Benoit Blanc as the connecting thread. Below is the Knives Out release order with details for each film.
1. Knives Out (2019)
- Director/Writer: Rian Johnson
- Key Cast: Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson, Toni Collette, LaKeith Stanfield, Christopher Plummer.
- Plot Summary: When wealthy patriarch Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) is found dead in his mansion, detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is hired to investigate. The Thrombey family, including Linda (Jamie Lee Curtis), Walt (Michael Shannon), and Ransom (Chris Evans), hides secrets and motives. Nurse Marta Cabrera (Ana de Armas) becomes a key figure in unraveling the truth. This sharp, witty whodunit blends humor and suspense in a classic murder mystery setting.
- Availability: Stream on Amazon Prime or rent on platforms like YouTube and Apple TV.
- Significance: The first film established the Knives Out formula: clever plotting, ensemble casts, and Benoit Blanc’s charismatic sleuthing. It grossed $311.4 million against a $40 million budget and earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
2. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
- Director/Writer: Rian Johnson
- Key Cast: Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista, Jessica Henwick, Madelyn Cline.
- Plot Summary: Benoit Blanc travels to a lavish private island in Greece, invited by tech billionaire Miles Bron (Edward Norton). A murder mystery game among Bron’s eclectic friends—including Birdie Jay (Kate Hudson), Claire Debella (Kathryn Hahn), and Lionel Toussaint (Leslie Odom Jr.)—turns deadly. Blanc must navigate deception and betrayal to solve the case. The film’s vibrant setting and sharp social commentary elevate the stakes.
- Availability: Stream exclusively on Netflix.
- Significance: Acquired by Netflix for $450 million, Glass Onion expanded the franchise’s scope with a grander setting and satirical edge. Despite a limited theatrical release, it earned a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score and critical praise.
3. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (2025)
- Director/Writer: Rian Johnson
- Key Cast: Daniel Craig, Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, Thomas Haden Church.
- Plot Summary: Details remain under wraps, but Benoit Blanc returns for another thrilling case. Early teasers suggest a darker, more intense mystery, with Blanc facing a new ensemble of suspects. The film promises Rian Johnson’s signature blend of wit and suspense, set against a fresh backdrop.
- Availability: Expected to stream on Netflix with a possible theatrical release.
- Significance: As the third installment, Wake Up Dead Man continues the franchise’s tradition of bold storytelling and stellar casts. Its 2025 release is highly anticipated, with early reviews praising its 96% Rotten Tomatoes score.
How many Knives Out movies are there?
As of 2025, there are three Knives Out movies: Knives Out (2019), Glass Onion (2022), and Wake Up Dead Man (2025).
All Knives Out Movies in Order of Release Date (U.S)
Here are the Knives Out Films in the order, they were released.
- Knives Out — November 27, 2019
- Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery — November 23, 2022
- Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery — November 26, 2025
Why the Knives Out Movies Are Worth Watching
The Knives Out franchise is a masterclass in modern mystery filmmaking. Rian Johnson’s sharp scripts weave intricate plots with clever twists, while Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc delivers charm and wit. The films’ diverse casts—featuring stars like Chris Evans, Janelle Monáe, and Glenn Close—bring depth to each character. Critically acclaimed, with Knives Out earning a 97% Rotten Tomatoes score and an Oscar nomination, the series appeals to mystery fans and casual viewers alike. Its blend of humor, suspense, and social commentary makes it a standout. Check out Rotten Tomatoes for more Knives Out movie reviews.
What’s Next for the Knives Out Franchise?
With Wake Up Dead Man set for November 2025, the Knives Out series shows no signs of slowing down. Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig have expressed enthusiasm for more films, as long as they continue collaborating. Netflix’s $450 million deal secures at least one more sequel, and Johnson has hinted at unique settings and tones for future Knives Out movies. Fan ideas, like a Muppets crossover, have sparked Johnson’s interest, though he’s focused on original stories. Stay tuned for updates on IMDb or Netflix.
Conclusion:
The Knives Out movies in order—Knives Out (2019), Glass Onion (2022), and Wake Up Dead Man (2025)—offer a thrilling dive into Rian Johnson’s stylish whodunit universe. With Benoit Blanc at the helm, each film delivers clever mysteries and unforgettable casts. Start watching the Knives Out movie series today on Netflix or Amazon Prime! Which Knives Out movie is your favorite? Share in the comments or spread the word with fellow mystery fans on X! For More: Wikipedia.org
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