This week on Forgotten Cinema: Now Showing, the Mikes close out their Benoit Blanc journey with "Wake Up Dead Man", joined by a special guest: writer, director, and cinematographer Steven Bernstein.

All three agree that this is the strongest entry in the Knives Out trilogy. While Mike Butler still prefers "Knives Out" overall, he feels "Wake Up Dead Man" is far more confident in its mystery, avoids the distracting mid-film twist structure, and finally gives Benoit Blanc real character development instead of turning him into a caricature.

Steven Bernstein praises the film primarily for its characters, even while acknowledging that some still veer a bit too far into farce, with the notable exception of Josh O’Connor’s standout performance. Butler responds more strongly to the film’s mystery and narrative focus, appreciating how the story unfolds without relying on gimmicks.

One thing everyone agrees on: "Glass Onion" remains the weakest of the trilogy by a wide margin.

With a thoughtful guest perspective and a deeper dive into what makes a mystery truly work, Mike Field and Mike Butler break down why "Wake Up Dead Man" feels like the series finally firing on all cylinders.

Follow Steven Bernstein on Instagram

@stevenbernsteindirectorwriter

Check out his IMDB page!

www.imdb.com/name/nm0077149/?ref_=mv_close

And his Amazon author page

www.amazon.com/stores/Steven-Bernstein/author/B0F7M88J2Q?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

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0:00 - Intro

8:12 - Film Discussion

1:01:03 - Plugs

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