Rian Johnson’s Wake Up Dead Man finally hit theatres, 600 screens in the US, 500 overseas, and possibly more in the coming days. For many film lovers around the world, it’s an exciting moment. A new entry in a franchise with a loyal following, a director who wants real cinema energy, and an audience that’s genuinely eager to show up.
Except… not in India.
Indian fans, as usual, are watching the global celebration from the outside. No listings, no release slate, no single confirmed screen. A film made for theatrical energy, reactions, laughter, gasps, has skipped the very market that routinely shows up for murder mysteries, big ensemble casts, and franchise storytelling.
And the irony stings even more when you look at the timing.
The movie arrives on Netflix globally on 12th December, barely two weeks after its limited theatrical run began. Johnson himself admitted his frustration on X, saying he wished it played in more venues. He even reminded theatres they can keep it running after the Netflix drop if there’s demand.
But demand isn’t the problem.
The problem is that Indian theatres were never given the option in the first place.
For a country that made the first Knives Out a streaming phenomenon, it feels like an oversight, or worse, a dismissal. Fans aren’t asking for IMAX, or massive promotional tours. They’re simply asking for the chance to watch a highly anticipated film the way it was meant to be seen: in a dark room, with strangers, reacting together.
Instead, the message feels clear: Wait for Netflix.
And yes, India will get it, warm, bright, and perfect for Christmas viewing. But the magic of theatrical moments isn’t something even the best streaming platform can replicate. And with each limited rollout like this, Indian audiences are reminded that their enthusiasm often isn’t met with equal respect.
Netflix has the numbers from India. What it needs now is the intent.
Because sometimes, fans don’t just want content. They want an experience, and Wake Up Dead Man deserved to be one.
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