James Wan in Talks to Direct ‘Creature From the Black Lagoon’ Remake

by

James Wan in Talks to Direct ‘Creature From the Black Lagoon’ Remake

As a lifelong horror enthusiast who has seen every Universal monster classic under the moon, I am beyond thrilled with the news of James Wan taking the helm for “The Creature From the Black Lagoon” reboot! With his exceptional track record in delivering chilling and suspenseful tales, I have no doubt that this new iteration will give us a visceral and terrifying encounter with the Gill-Man.

The Creature From the Black Lagoon is rising once again.

Film director James Wan, known for crafting the terrifying worlds of ‘Saw’ and ‘The Conjuring’, is working on a fresh interpretation of the well-known Universal monster universe and is currently discussing potential plans to helm this upcoming movie production.

The decision arises from Wan and his team proposing a reboot idea for the 1954 monster movie classic to Universal. Subsequently, they plan to recruit a screenwriter who will work together with Wan on drafting the script.

Wan, who had been working on the DC superhero film “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” for a while, is now directing a new project, marking his first endeavor since Atomic Monster combined with Blumhouse. Eager to reconnect with his horror background, he has been seeking an opportunity to do so following this hiatus.

In the upcoming project titled “Creature”, I’ll be taking up the role of a producer. On the other hand, Michael Clear and Judson Scott from Atomic Monster are set to serve as executive producers.

A black-and-white film, utilizing the trendy 3D technique, narrated the tale of a prehistoric, aquatic humanoid beast and the team of researchers eager to examine him. This was one of Universal’s legendary monster movies, offering an enthralling blend of horror, sorrow, and romance, and introducing viewers to the distinctive Gill-Man, also known as The Creature, who is the last of his species.

As a die-hard fan of sci-fi, I’ve always admired Jack Arnold’s work, particularly his masterpieces like “The Incredible Shrinking Man.” Interestingly enough, it was none other than this talented director who brought to life the movie where Julie Adams played the captivating lady who attracted the Creature’s attention.

Since the 1980s, Hollywood has been attempting to resurrect the classic creature, with John Landis initiating a remake in the 80s, followed by John Carpenter and Ivan Reitman developing their own versions in the 90s. In the 2000s, Gary Ross endeavored to continue the legacy, as his father, Arthur A. Ross, co-wrote the script. Breck Eisner also took on the project during this period.

In the 2010s, it was planned for this character to join Universal’s series of monster movies known as the Dark Universe, and Will Beall wrote the script for that installment. However, due to changes in strategy, the entire Dark Universe concept ultimately collapsed, as the studio shifted towards a more director-focused production approach instead.

Wan’s interpretation is characterized as a practical, contemporary reinterpretation that emphasizes intense fear, while also preserving the essence of the original.

Executive vp production development Jay Polidoro will oversee the project for Universal.

As a lifelong horror enthusiast who grew up watching classic films like “Night of the Living Dead” and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation whenever I hear about upcoming releases from Atomic Monster, especially since their partnership with Blumhouse. The production house has consistently delivered high-quality thrills and chills in recent years, from the chilling “Night Swim” earlier this year to the highly anticipated sequel to “M3GAN,” due out in 2025, and a spinoff, “SOULM8TE,” set for release in 2026.

Wan is repped by CAA, Stacey Testro International and Myman Greenspan Fox.

Read More

2024-08-12 20:24