Netflix is close to inking a deal that would grant the streaming service exclusive streaming rights to “Knives Out” 2 and 3. Rian Johnson will continue as writer/director of the series, and Daniel Craig will reprise his role as Benoit Blanc. Sources say the deal is upwards of $400M, making it one of the largest streaming deals in history.
The first “Knives Out” was a global phenomenon upon its 2019 release. Directed and written by Rian Johnson, the mystery brought detective stories back into the mainstream with the introduction of Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig). Blanc is tasked with solving the murder of Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer), an acclaimed novelist who surprisingly leaves his entire business to his caretaker Marta (Ana de Armas). The ensuing plot has everything great about an Agatha Christie story and more: a group of suspects, intriguing motives, plenty of red herrings, and Chris Evans in a waffle sweater.
The film was a major hit and Johnson was even nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Audiences have clamored for a sequel or even a spin-off to the “Knives Out” world, and it seems Netflix, per usual, is bringing the wishes of the Internet to fruition.
However, I’m a little disappointed the sequels will go exclusively to streaming. Viewing “Knives Out” in a theater was an unforgettable moviegoing experience; there’s nothing like watching a mystery unravel with 50 other people equally invested in the story. Although, it’s hard to fault Johnson and his team for the decision. If I were offered $400M for anything let alone the rights to a movie, I’d assuredly sign the deal.
