The Knives Out series includes two released mystery comedies and one announced follow-up. As of now, there are two theatrically released films in the series — the original Knives Out (2019) and its sequel Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022). A third film, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, is in development and will reunite the characters in a new ensemble story. This guide clarifies the current count, outlines each movie’s premise, and explains what has been officially confirmed about future installments.
Released Films So Far
Two full-length theatrical entries complete the series to date. Each presents a self-contained mystery anchored by eccentric wealthy families, sharp dialogue, and detective figure Benoit Blanc. Knowing which installments exist helps viewers understand how the world has expanded and what narrative threads have been resolved or left open.
Knives Out (2019)
The inaugural film follows renowned detective Benoit Blanc as he investigates the death of crime novelist Harlan Thrombey. The story centers on a dysfunctional family gathering at Thrombey’s mansion, blending classic whodunit structure with satirical commentary on wealth and fame. Its critical and commercial success established the template for modern Hitchcockian puzzles in a contemporary setting.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
The sequel relocates Blanc and his associate to a Greek island for a tech billionaire’s curated weekend, which descends into a layered conspiracy involving art, influence, and loyalty. While more ambitious in scope and setting, it maintains the series’ signature structure of shifting perspectives and a morally complex finale. Both films were directed by Rian Johnson and feature Daniel Craig as Blanc.
Planned and Rumored Projects Clarified
Beyond the two released films, consistent coverage has surrounded additional stories set in the same universe. Many references to a third movie stem from announcements that link disparate characters together, rather than continuing the immediate family saga. Distinguishing confirmed plans from speculation clarifies how the franchise is actually evolving.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
This upcoming installment was first referred to as a third film but is best understood as a new ensemble mystery that intersects multiple timelines and characters. Reports suggest it will connect back to core themes of the earlier entries while operating as a distinct narrative, avoiding simple continuation beats in favor of broader crossover storytelling.
Confirmed Count at a Glance
The series is best understood as two completed movies and one forthcoming project. Entries are standalone in plot but share recurring talent and thematic preoccupations. Framing the series this way avoids overcounting unproduced concepts while acknowledging officially announced work.
| Title | Release Status | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knives Out | Released | 2019 | Original mystery; introduces Blanc and the Thrombey family |
| Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery | Released | 2022 | Standalone sequel set on a Greek island |
| Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery | Upcoming | TBD | Ensemble mystery linking multiple stories; not a direct continuation of the prior plots |
Why the Confusion Around the Count?
News cycles, interviews, and casual conversation blur the lines between planned stories and announced ideas. When reports describe a film as the next Knives Out movie, it can sound like an immediate continuation, even if it represents a broader crossover concept or a separate chapter.
What to Watch For Next
As Wake Up Dead Man moves toward release, official announcements about casting, plot details, and scheduling will clarify the next chapter. Until then, the reliably defined pair of released films offers substantial mystery, humor, and stylish storytelling for fans of the series.
Final Takeaway
At present, audiences can count two finished movies in the Knives Out series and one upcoming project that expands the world without strictly continuing the immediate plot. This measured framing captures what exists, what is planned, and what remains speculative, giving a stable lens on a growing but carefully delineated franchise.
FAQ
Reader questions
Are the movies connected like a traditional trilogy?
No. The series is structured more like an anthology, with each main film presenting a new case and largely new stakes. Connections exist in recurring cast, tone, and world details, but narratives do not depend on events from earlier entries.
Will there be a fourth movie after Wake Up Dead Man?
Nothing has been officially confirmed beyond the announced third film. Decisions about further projects will likely depend on audience reception, creative plans, and the evolving vision of the filmmakers, but no formal greenlit fourth entry currently exists.
Does the order of viewing affect understanding or enjoyment?
Not significantly. Because each film resolves its central mystery independently, watching in release order is logical but not mandatory. Viewers who prefer starting with the latest will still grasp individual stories without needing prior context.