Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man Poised for Oscar Glory as Competition Heats Up

UPDATE: The critically acclaimed film Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man is generating buzz as a strong contender for the upcoming Academy Awards. With its release set for November 26, 2025, fans and filmmakers are eager to see if this latest entry can secure a spot among the nominees for Best Adapted Screenplay.

The film, directed by Rian Johnson, is being praised for its complex narrative and sharp social commentary, making it a timely piece that resonates with audiences today. Critics are calling it his best work yet, blending humor, horror, and profound themes of faith and responsibility. The film’s unique approach to spirituality and satire is expected to appeal to Academy voters, who favor narratives with depth and character development.

Johnson has faced stiff competition in the past, and while a nomination seems likely, the race for the award will be tight. Other potential nominees, such as Bugonia and No Other Choice, also explore similar themes of societal critique and may split the vote. Additionally, films like Train Dream and Frankenstein, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, are also in contention, further complicating Johnson’s path to victory.

In the screenplay category, One Battle After Another and Hamnet are expected frontrunners, both showcasing narratives that could dominate the awards season. The competition’s intensity raises the stakes for Wake Up Dead Man, which, despite its strong script, faces challenges to clinch the Oscar.

As the awards season approaches, industry insiders are closely monitoring Johnson’s trajectory with this film. If it secures a nomination, it will mark his third shot at an Oscar in this category. Given the Academy’s past support for Johnson’s work, a nomination would not be surprising, but winning remains uncertain.

Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts as the excitement builds. Will Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man pull off a historic upset and earn Johnson his first Oscar? Stay tuned as this story develops, and be sure to catch the film when it hits theaters this November!