Jake Gyllenhaal is set to explore the supernatural in his next project, a collaboration with none other than M. Night Shyamalan (The Sixth Sense). Details are scarce. However, this yet-to-be-named project has a unique twist: Shyamalan will write the screenplay in tandem with Nicholas Sparks (“The Notebook”). Sparks will simultaneously craft a novel based on their shared concept.
This unusual approach raises intriguing questions about the story’s direction. What common ground will these two seemingly disparate creative forces find? The only known detail is that the film will be a supernatural romantic thriller.
Shyamalan and Sparks have recently explored themes of religious miracles in their work. Sparks’ latest novel, “Counting Miracles” (2024), features a religious character whose life is irrevocably changed by a potential miracle. Similarly, Shyamalan’s Knock at the Cabin (2023) presents a family confronted with an apocalyptic choice, raising questions about faith and sacrifice.
Given their respective tendencies towards opposite ends of the spectrum—Sparks’ often lighter, more romantic touch versus Shyamalan’s darker, more suspenseful style—the tone of this collaboration is likey to be intresting.
Gyllenhaal’s strength lies in portraying characters whose psychological struggles manifest through supernatural or science-fiction elements, as seen in films like 2001’s Donnie Darko, Enemy (2013), and Source Code (2011). He can uniquely ground even the most fantastical scenarios in relatable human experience. This talent will undoubtedly be valuable in bringing this supernatural romantic thriller to life. Jake Gyllenhaal can next be seen in NEON’s upcoming vampire movie Brides, which also stars Longlegs actress Maika Monroe.
These three distinct artistic visions—Shyamalan’s suspense, Sparks’ romance, and Gyllenhaal’s nuanced performances—promise a truly unique and compelling cinematic experience.
