Mon Dec 15 06:20:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
“Knives Out” Sequel Incorporates Catholic Themes with Guidance from Denver Priest
Baltimore, MD – December 12, 2025 – The latest installment of the “Knives Out” series, “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” available on Netflix, features a unique blend of murder mystery and Catholic themes, thanks in part to consultation with Father Scott Bailey from Risen Christ Catholic Parish in Denver. Director Rian Johnson, though not Catholic himself, sought input from Catholic relatives and local priests to ensure accuracy and authenticity in portraying Catholic characters and settings.
The film follows Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) as he investigates a murder in a small-town Catholic parish. Key characters include a young, earnest priest, Father Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor), and the fire-and-brimstone preaching pastor, Msgr. Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin).
Father Bailey served as a consultant on the film, advising on details such as priestly attire, set design, and props. He even contributed to the naming of Msgr. Wicks. He also spoke with O’Connor about priestly ministry and God.
Johnson drew upon his Christian upbringing to explore themes of faith, mercy, and forgiveness within the whodunnit framework. “This movie entirely came out of me wanting to see…can I have kind of a multi-faceted conversation with myself about this topic,” Johnson said.
The film, rated PG-13 for violent content and language, aims to explore Christianity’s place in modern culture and encourage dialogue rather than judgment. Despite containing potentially offensive content, the movie presents a larger message of mercy and forgiveness.
Father Bailey hopes the film will resonate with Catholics and encourage reflection on the relationship between Christians and the world. He believes the film ultimately presents a message of “mercy and open arms,” inviting viewers to consider how they engage with those of differing beliefs.
First Piper 