After the poor reception to the latest THE MUMMY led Universal to put the kibosh on its Dark Universe series, the studio is now revisiting the idea of reviving its classic creatures, and the latest development is a big step in the right direction.
Variety reports that, as was much-speculated, Universal is teaming with Blumhouse on one project, at least: a fresh take on THE INVISIBLE MAN. Leigh Whannell (pictured), who scored a knockout with UPGRADE last year, will direct and also produce with Jason Blum, continuing their association from UPGRADE and the INSIDIOUS films. Johnny Depp, previously attached to the INVISIBLE MAN revival, is not involved, and the studio is not pursuing an interconnected-universe approach to the new features.
“Throughout cinematic history, Universal’s classic monsters have been reinvented through the prism of each new filmmaker who brought these characters to life,” Peter Cramer, Universal’s president of production, tells the trade. “We are excited to take a more individualized approach for their return to screen, shepherded by creators who have stories they are passionate to tell with them.” More of these projects, on which the filmmakers will not be restricted on budget, tone and rating, are currently being put together with other directors, and INVISIBLE MAN will not necessarily be the first one to go before the cameras. More updates on these films as they come in!
