When was knives out 3

Overview

The highly anticipated Knives Out franchise is set to continue with a third installment, though fans are still waiting for a confirmed release date. Following the massive success of the first two films—2019’s Knives Out and 2022’s Glass Onion—director Rian Johnson and star Daniel Craig are returning to continue the mystery series. The films have become modern classics in the whodunnit genre, blending sharp writing with star-studded casts.

While Knives Out 3 is officially greenlit, production timelines remain uncertain. The project is under Netflix, which acquired the rights to the next two sequels for a reported $450 million in 2021. Given the gap between the second and third films, fans expect a 2025 or 2026 release, but no official date has been set.

• Release Window: As of mid-2024, Knives Out 3 is expected to begin filming in late 2024 or early 2025, suggesting a possible 2026 release.
• Director Return:Rian Johnson will write and direct the third film, maintaining creative control over the franchise’s tone and structure.
• Lead Actor:Daniel Craig will return as detective Benoit Blanc, the Southern-accented sleuth at the center of the mysteries.
• Franchise Rights: Netflix secured the rights to produce two new sequels after Glass Onion, paying a record-breaking $450 million.
• Production Delay: Unlike the two-year gap between the first and second films, Knives Out 3 may face a four-year gap due to scheduling and script development.

How It Works

The Knives Out series operates on a unique production and distribution model, especially following its move to Netflix. Each film features a standalone mystery with a rotating supporting cast, while Craig’s Blanc remains the constant investigator. This anthology-style approach allows for creative flexibility and high-profile guest stars.

• Anthology Format: Each film presents a new cast and setting, allowing for fresh storylines while maintaining continuity through Benoit Blanc’s character.
• Star-Studded Casting: The films attract A-list talent—Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Dave Bautista—due to the franchise’s critical and commercial success.
• Netflix Distribution: After Glass Onion premiered in theaters, it was released on Netflix in December 2022, reaching over 100 million viewers in its first 28 days.
• Box Office Success:Knives Out (2019) earned $311 million worldwide on a $40 million budget, making it one of the most profitable films of the year.
• Script Development: Rian Johnson writes each script from scratch, often taking 12 to 18 months to complete the intricate plots and red herrings.
• Production Timeline: Principal photography typically lasts 8 to 10 weeks, followed by several months of post-production and marketing.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares key details across the first two Knives Out films and expected elements for the third:

The shift to Netflix has changed the release strategy, prioritizing global streaming access over wide theatrical runs. While Knives Out had a traditional box office release, Glass Onion had a limited theatrical window before streaming. This model is expected to continue for Knives Out 3, maximizing reach and subscriber engagement.

Why It Matters

The continuation of the Knives Out series represents a rare success story in original, non-franchise filmmaking in an era dominated by reboots and sequels. Its blend of classic mystery tropes with modern satire has revitalized audience interest in whodunnits. The franchise also demonstrates the growing power of streaming platforms in funding high-quality, original content.

• Cultural Impact: The films have sparked renewed interest in classic detective fiction, influencing TV and film storytelling trends.
• Streaming Power: Netflix’s $450 million investment shows confidence in original IP over superhero or franchise content.
• Actor Legacy: Daniel Craig’s post-Bond career is being redefined by Benoit Blanc, a role fans want to see continue.
• Genre Revival: The series has helped revive the murder mystery genre in mainstream cinema.
• Global Reach: Netflix distribution ensures worldwide accessibility, increasing the franchise’s international fanbase.
• Future Potential: Success could lead to more sequels or spin-offs, expanding the Benoit Blanc universe.

With strong creative leadership and audience demand, Knives Out 3 is poised to be one of the most-watched original films of the mid-2020s, even without a confirmed date.