Paramount Confirms David Bruckner to Direct 'Smile 3' as Parker Finn Shifts to Producing Role
Paramount has appointed David Bruckner to direct the third installment of the 'Smile' horror franchise, with Nick Antosca writing the screenplay. Creator Parker Finn, who directed the first two films, is stepping back from the director's chair to focus on a 'Possession' remake but will produce 'Smile 3' and retain a first-look deal with the studio. The franchise has grossed over $350 million globally, and while plot details remain undisclosed, Finn has pitched the framework for the trilogy-completing film.
Key points
- David Bruckner, known for the 'Hellraiser' reboot and 'The Night House', is set to direct 'Smile 3'.
- Nick Antosca, creator of 'Cape Fear' and writer of 'Verity', will pen the screenplay.
- Parker Finn, creator of the franchise, will serve as a producer and developed the framework for the third film.
- Jonathan Fass is listed as an executive producer for the project.
- The first two 'Smile' films functioned as standalone stories with different leads, grossing over $350 million combined.
Background
The 'Smile' franchise began with a 2022 original horror film that became the highest-grossing of its year, followed by a 2024 sequel that expanded the supernatural entity's reach. Both films featured different protagonists, establishing a pattern of standalone narratives within the same universe. Parker Finn signed a first-look deal with Paramount in 2023 following the success of the initial release.
How outlets are covering it
All three sources confirm the appointment of Bruckner and Antosca, as well as Finn's transition to a producer role. Variety and The Hollywood Reporter emphasize Bruckner's current high demand, noting his simultaneous work on 'The Caretaker', 'Mice', and a 'The Blob' remake. Deadline highlights that Finn is unavailable due to directing the 'Possession' remake, scheduled for June 2027. While Variety notes the lack of plot details, THR includes Finn's earlier comments about wanting future 'Smile' films to remain character-driven despite expanding the world. No significant disagreements exist among the outlets regarding the core facts.
Why it matters
The appointment of a new director signals a potential shift in the franchise's creative direction while maintaining its commercial momentum. With the first two films generating over $350 million, 'Smile 3' represents a significant financial opportunity for Paramount. The involvement of Finn as a producer ensures continuity in the franchise's core concept, even as the directorial duties change hands.
What to watch
Paramount has not announced a release date for 'Smile 3'. Production details, including the cast, remain undisclosed. Finn is currently focused on directing the 'Possession' remake, which is set for release in June 2027. Bruckner is also developing other projects, including 'The Caretaker' and 'Mice', which may impact his schedule for 'Smile 3'.
- ‘Smile 3’ Taps ‘Hellraiser’ Director David Bruckner Amid Parker Finn’s Absence Deadline
- ‘Smile 3’ Sets David Bruckner to Direct While Franchise Creator Parker Finn Helms ‘Possession’ Remake (EXCLUSIVE) Variety
- David Bruckner Set to Direct ‘Smile 3’ The Hollywood Reporter
- Smile 3 Finds New Director To Replace Franchise Creator, Here’s Why Yahoo
- ‘Smile 3’ Finds a New Director as Parker Finn Heads Into Stranger Territory IMDb
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