Paramount Pictures is officially developing a third installment in the massive Smile horror franchise. Genre fans can expect more terrifying curses and creepy grins. Franchise creator Parker Finn pitched the story framework for the upcoming threequel. However, he is passing directorial duties to new creative leadership while remaining a producer, Variety reports.
New Creative Leadership Takes Control
Acclaimed genre director David Bruckner will helm the upcoming horror production. He previously directed the modern Hellraiser reboot and psychological hits like The Night House. Screenwriter Nick Antosca also joined the project to write the script. His past writing credentials include dark chillers like Antlers and the acclaimed miniseries “Cape Fear.”
Secretive Plot and Standalone Storylines
Specific narrative details for the third movie remain locked in dark studio vaults. Previously, the original film centered on a traumatized therapist battling terrifying hallucinations. Meanwhile, the second entry followed a mega pop star experiencing bizarre occurrences during a world tour. Because each installment functions as a standalone sequel, casting teams will recruit brand-new leads.
A Massive Box Office Juggernaut
The original movie premiered as a massive sleeper hit, earning over $200 million globally. The second chapter proved equally lucrative, generating nearly $140 million worldwide. Together, the two films earned over $350 million on modest budgets. As a result, studio executives eagerly greenlit a third chapter for global audiences.
Franchise Creator Expands His Slate
Although Parker Finn stepped away from directorship, he maintains a strong working relationship with Paramount. He signed a lucrative first-look deal following his initial breakout success. Finn is currently preparing to direct a high-profile remake of the classic supernatural horror film Possession. The horror project stars Callum Turner and Margaret Qualley in lead roles. Horror enthusiasts eagerly await further developments on both upcoming studio releases.
While you wait for an update on Smile 3, you can stream Smile and Smile 2 now on MGM+, Netflix, Prime Video, and Peacock.
