What is the visual style of 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery'?

The film adopts a full gothic aesthetic, contrasting with the cozy feel of the first 'Knives Out' movie.

Who is the cinematographer for 'Wake Up Dead Man'?

Steve Yedlin, who has a long-standing collaboration with director Rian Johnson, is the cinematographer for the film.

What is special about the church set in 'Wake Up Dead Man'?

The church, Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude, is a meticulously designed gothic set that served as a primary location and inspired creative lighting.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Rian Johnson's Gothic 'Knives Out' Goes Dark

Rian Johnson's Gothic 'Knives Out' Goes Dark

30 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Cinematographer Steve Yedlin crafts gothic visuals for 'Wake Up Dead Man'.
Filming features a meticulously designed gothic church set.
Innovative lighting techniques enhance mood and character dynamics.

Rian Johnson's Gothic 'Knives Out' Goes Dark

Rian Johnson's latest film, 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,' delves into a gothic visual territory, moving away from the cozy ambiance of its predecessor. Cinematographer Steve Yedlin highlights his long-standing collaboration with Johnson, emphasizing their shared goal of immersing audiences in the characters' experiences.

The production design features a stunning gothic church, Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude, which Yedlin describes as his favorite set. This visually rich environment, with its nooks, corners, and strong lines, allowed for creative exploration of light and shadow to underscore the film's darker themes and plot developments.

Yedlin employed advanced, custom software to precisely control lighting cues, enabling both planned dramatic moments and spontaneous improvisations that complemented the actors' performances. This meticulous approach to cinematography ensures that the visual storytelling powerfully conveys the ensemble's dynamics and the inherent menace within the film's setting.