David Bruckner, who helmed 2017’s acclaimed “The Ritual” and the 2022 “Hellraiser” reboot, has been set to direct “Smile 3” at Paramount Pictures.
Bruckner takes over for Parker Finn, who created the franchise and wrote and directed the previous two instalments. Nick Antosca (“Verity,” “Cape Fear”) will pen the script for the latest entry based on a story pitch by Finn.
The first film had Sosie Bacon as a therapist who becomes haunted by hallucinations after witnessing a patient die. The second had Naomi Scott as a pop singer who begins to experience a series of disturbing events as she embarks on tour.
The nature of the films means a third film will also be essentially standalone with a whole new story and stars, but no casting has yet been set. The first two films have grossed more than $350 million worldwide.
Finn will remain involved as a producer alongside Temple Hill. He’s currently directing a remake of the 1981 supernatural thriller “Possession” starring Callum Turner and Margaret Qualley.
Bruckner is currently writing and developing a reboot of “The Blob” at Warners, “Mice” at A24, and the Sydney Sweeney-led “The Caretaker” at Universal Pictures.
Source: Variety
