Netflix is known for carefully managing its budget, as evidenced by the cancellation of several shows. Even popular productions are ending despite fan demand and positive critical reviews. Recently, it was announced that the Dead Boy Detectives series from the Sandman universe won't be receiving funding for a continuation. However, Netflix doesn’t hesitate to spend lavishly in some cases.
Could Netflix Be Making the Most Expensive Film in the Genre's History?
The film industry has drastically changed with the rise of streaming platforms. Today, even films by the biggest directors with star-studded casts premiere not only in theaters but are also exclusively released on major streaming platforms. One of the most notable premieres of this kind took place in 2019 when Netflix released Rian Johnson's Knives Out.
The film became a massive hit, receiving excellent reviews and drawing in new subscribers to the service. It's no surprise that a deal for more sequels was quickly signed, and their budgets were increased. The first Knives Out film, shot primarily at a mansion in Boston, cost $40 million to make and grossed nearly $313 million.
The Third Knives Out Installment Is Set to Cost $210 Million
The second installment had the same budget but featured more diverse locations, with the story set on a private island, and the production took place in Greece and Serbia. Filming for the third installment, titled Wake Up Dead Man, wrapped in August 2024 and reportedly exceeded the combined budgets of the previous films by more than double.
The latest Rian Johnson film is set to hit Netflix in 2025 and is one of the most anticipated releases of the next 12 months. According to the creator of the website theinsneider.com, the budget for Knives Out 3 will be $210 million—five times more than the cost of the earlier films.
If Sneider’s sources are accurate, Wake Up Dead Man will not only be the most expensive film in the trilogy but also the most costly "whodunit" movie in the history of cinema. A significant portion of the budget has been invested in the film's star-studded cast. In addition to Daniel Craig, Wake Up Dead Man will feature Josh Brolin, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, Andrew Scott, Jeremy Renner, Mila Kunis, Kerry Washington, Glenn Close, and Thomas Haden Church.
