David Bruckner Directs The Next Smile
The Next Chapter of Fear: David Bruckner Takes the Reins of the ‘Smile’ Franchise
The chilling world of supernatural horror is gearing up for a new entry, and this time, the director steering the course is bringing a fresh perspective to the haunting narrative. David Bruckner, known for delivering intense and atmospheric thrillers like The Ritual and the unsettling reboot of Hellraiser, has been tapped to direct the next installment of the acclaimed Smile franchise at Paramount Pictures.
Bruckner steps into the role previously held by Parker Finn, the visionary who built the foundation of the franchise with the first two films. The creative team is shifting gears as well, with Nick Antosca slated to pen the script for the new entry, developing a story pitch provided by Finn.
The previous entries established a deeply disturbing pattern. The first film introduced Sosie Bacon, a therapist consumed by hallucinations after witnessing a patient’s death. The second film followed a different trajectory, featuring Naomi Scott as a pop singer who begins experiencing a series of escalating, disturbing events while on tour. These cinematic explorations of psychological terror have already proven immensely successful, with the first two films collectively grossing over $350 million worldwide.
The third film promises to be a distinct experience, essentially a standalone story with new characters and a fresh narrative. While the casting for this new chapter is still in development, the groundwork is set for a story that promises to expand the established mythology of fear.
Despite the creative transition, the original architects of the franchise remain deeply invested. Parker Finn will continue his role as a producer alongside Temple Hill, ensuring the continuity of the series’ core vision. Furthermore, Finn is currently channeling his creative energy into directing a remake of the classic 1981 supernatural thriller Possession, starring Callum Turner and Margaret Qualley.
Bruckner’s portfolio showcases a commitment to high-concept, atmospheric filmmaking, with other projects in development, including a reboot of The Blob at Warners, an upcoming feature called Mice at A24, and the Sydney Sweeney-led The Caretaker at Universal Pictures. These projects underline a consistent focus on exploring the dark edges of human experience.
The blending of Bruckner’s directorial flair with Antosca’s scripting promises a compelling evolution of the Smile universe, setting the stage for what could be another haunting cinematic milestone.
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