Lionsgate has reportedly already greenlitRian Johnson’s runaway hit whodunitKnives Outfor a sequel and I couldn’t have asked for better news to begin my 2020. Since its premiere back in November 2019,Knives Outhas proven itself to be box office gold as critics and audiences alike have discovered theAgatha Christie-esque murder mystery starringDaniel Craigas Benoit Blanc, a skilled sleuth searching for a murderer among the relatives of a wealthy but recently deceased crime novelist (Christopher Plummer). Johnson’s recent feature boasts one of the most colorful and talents casts of 2019, includingJamie Lee Curtis,Chris Evans,Ana de Armas,Don Johnson,Toni Collette, andMichael Shannon.
So, what exactly is happening with the allegedKnives Out 2? It seems Johnson confirmed toThe Hollywood Reporterthat a sequel had been greenlit by Lionsgate (when? Who knows!) and also noted he was already working on developing the story for the project. Johnson also shared with THR theKnives Outsequel would focused on Benoit Blanc, which means we’ll be treated to an entirely new cast of characters in the next chapter.
Additionally, Johnson revealed his desires to begin filming in the next year. It’s possible Johnson intends to keepKnives Out 2on the same confidently fast-paced schedule as its predecessor, which began filming in October 2018 and ended in December 2018. However, at this point in time it should be noted neither Lionsgate nor Johnson have released official statements confirmingKnives Out 2is happening. But, if Johnson is already divulging it to THR, then an official statement will likely just be the proverbial cherry on top of this exciting news.
Knives Outhas been nothing short of box office gold for Lionsgate since it arrived in theaters. As of Sunday, January 5,Knives Outhas becomethe second highest-grossing original release of 2019 with a domestic total of more than $130 million and a worldwide total of $247.5 million. Even more admirable is the fact this flick has experienced only slight week-to-week dips in its box office run — a relative rarity. Over this first weekend of January,Knives Outdipped a very small 9%. It’s also no mean feat that de Armas scooped up a 2020Golden Globe nominationfor Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy, Craig nabbed a Globe nod for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy, andKnives Outearned a nom for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy.
For a mid-budget, original story currently entering its sixth week in theaters, these current totals and early awards season props are sure signs it would have been foolish for Lionsgate tonotput a sequel in motion; we want more murder mysteries ASAP! Especially if they involve speeches aboutmetaphorical donut holes.
Knives Outis currently still in theaters. For more on the appropriately-hyped feature, check out our own extensiveQ&A with Johnsonand read our glowingreview from the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival.
