A couple of notable genre names are tackling horrific Paramount projects.
Variety reports that David Bruckner (pictured) has taken over directing Paramount Pictures’ SMILE 3 from Parker Finn, who helmed the previous two films and will produce the new one with Temple Hill. Nick Antosca (ANTLERS, the CAPE FEAR miniseries) is scripting from a concept by Finn, who’s currently busy on Paramount’s POSSESSION remake, due out June 11, 2027; plot details for SMILE 3 have yet to be released. Bruckner’s credits include THE NIGHT HOUSE, THE RITUAL and 2022’s HELLRAISER remake; he’s also developing the remake of THE BLOB for Warner Bros., Universal’s THE CARETAKER and A24’S MICE.
Meanwhile, Variety also reports that Rob Savage (OTHER MOMMY, HOST) has departed Paramount Primal and Blumhouse Atomic Monster’s MOLEPEOPLE, with Ben Wheatley stepping in to helm the project. This film, in which “a man embarks on a harrowing and nightmarish descent into the forgotten, abandoned tunnels beneath New York City, where he discovers a dark, twisted society lurking under the streets,” was written by OTHER MOMMY’s Nathan Elston. Originally announced star LaKeith Stanfield has also departed the movie, which is targeting an August 27, 2027 release. Wheatley’s résumé ranges from acclaimed independent horror films like KILL LIST, A FIELD IN ENGLAND and IN THE EARTH to the big ticket MEG 2: THE TRENCH and this year’s Bob Odenkirk actioner NORMAL.
