Smile director Parker Finn assures fans that his upcoming remake of the '80s cult horror favorite Possession will stay true to the film's wild nature.
The 1981 film, directed by director Andrzej Żuławski, starred Sam Neill as a spy who suddenly faces divorce, and events become increasingly strange and supernatural. Twilight and Batman star Robert Pattinson is currently on board the remake as a producer, although The Hollywood Reporter writes that he may appear in front of the camera depending on schedules.
As Finn emphasizes to SFX magazine in the new issue, which features Terrifier 3 on the cover and hits newsstands October 2, the original has a “frenetic, manic ferocity” that he hopes to retain with his upcoming remake.
The filmmaker then reiterates that his overall goal is to ensure it is completely faithful to Żuławski's story, stating: “It's still early days, but we're incredibly excited about this completely crazy movie. Possession is one of my favorite movies of all time So what was really important to me was that we honored the original and stayed true to its absolute manic, frenetic ferocity.
“We want to make sure that fans of the original, who might be a little suspicious of a remake, when they sit down to watch it they realize, 'Oh, this movie is for me and it really encompasses what I love.'”
However, Finn also adds that he hopes his remake will also welcome new audiences, saying: “At the same time, I want to invite new fans. I think there's a really wonderful opportunity that by reimagining this movie, people who don't has seen the 1981 movie is going to visit her, so I hope she spreads the love.”
Next up for Finn is the upcoming horror film Smile 2, which is a sequel to his 2022 hit. This time, however, the curse haunts pop star Skye Riley, played by Naomi Scott, as she embarks on a new world tour. The filmmaker will likely begin work on Possession shortly after the film's release.
Not subscribed to SFX? So Head here to get the latest issues delivered straight to your home/device!
The SFX 2024 Halloween Horror Special is here! We're out on set with Art the Clown for #Terrifier3! Our new issue, on sale October 2, includes exclusive Terrifier items, while supplies last. Pre-order now at https://t.co/i5QAf4UYmE @damienleone @TerrifierFilm @SignatureEntUK pic.twitter.com/sjSLwZeY0WSSeptember 26, 2024
For even more from SFX, sign up for our newsletter, delivering the latest exclusive news straight to your inbox.