Wake Up Dead Man, (L-R) Josh O'Connor and Daniel Craig in Wake Up Dead Man. Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2025
Netflix has officially announced that the next chapter in the popular murder mystery franchise, Knives Out 3, will hit theaters worldwide on November 28, 2025. This theatrical release will precede its debut on the streaming platform, where it will be available starting December 12, 2025. This decision marks a potential shift in Netflix’s approach to theatrical releases, suggesting a newfound willingness to engage with cinema audiences before transitioning to its streaming service.
The announcement, made on September 2, 2023, coincided with the unveiling of a new promotional poster. This strategic timing allows viewers to experience the film, directed by Rian Johnson, on the big screen, fostering anticipation among audiences. The two-week gap between the theatrical release and streaming availability could generate significant buzz, potentially leading to critical discussions among film enthusiasts.
Netflix’s prior approach to theatrical releases has often been characterized by limited runs. For example, its previous installment, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, was shown in theaters for only one week in November 2022, followed by a month-long wait before it was available on Netflix. While the film amassed nearly 209 million hours viewed over the 2022 holiday season, some analysts argue that the lengthy separation from its theatrical release diluted its impact.
The close timing of Knives Out 3’s theatrical and streaming debuts is noteworthy. It provides an opportunity for audiences to watch the film in cinemas before it becomes available for home viewing. This method of staggered releases could enhance word-of-mouth promotion, especially if the film garners positive reviews. Viewers who miss the theatrical screenings will still have the film fresh in their minds when it becomes available for streaming.
In contrast to its predecessors, Knives Out 3 may benefit from this dual-release strategy. The film’s placement in theaters could generate conversation among cinephiles and motivate viewers to seek it out on Netflix shortly after. This shift reflects Netflix’s recognition of the value that theatrical experiences can add to its films.
Despite the optimism surrounding Knives Out 3, Netflix has faced criticism for its previous release strategies. The streaming giant recently released Kpop Demon Hunters in theaters for a limited engagement after its successful debut on the platform. Although the film garnered over 300 million views on Netflix, it generated more than $18 million during its brief theatrical run. Critics argue that a more extended cinematic release could have significantly increased its box office performance.
As Netflix continues to navigate the balance between theatrical and streaming releases, the approaches taken with Knives Out 3 and forthcoming films, such as Guillermo del Toro’s retelling of Frankenstein, will be closely scrutinized. The decision to launch these films in theaters shortly before their streaming debuts represents a step toward a more effective strategy that could redefine the company’s future in film distribution.
With Knives Out 3 set to debut in theaters later this year, audiences will soon discover whether Netflix’s evolving approach can reshape its place in the cinematic landscape. The potential for this franchise to dominate discussions during the critical holiday season may set a new precedent for Netflix’s future releases, paving the way for a more integrated relationship between cinema and streaming platforms.
