Universal Pictures is doubling down on one of horror’s hottest new filmmakers.
Following the breakout success of Obsession and the upcoming supernatural thriller Anything But Ghosts, filmmaker Curry Barker is officially returning to Universal Film Group and Blumhouse Atomic Monster for a brand-new original horror project. The announcement marks Barker’s third consecutive collaboration with the studios, further cementing his status as one of the fastest-rising names in modern horror filmmaking.
According to Deadline, Barker will write, direct, and produce the untitled feature, which is based on an original idea developed by the filmmaker himself. As expected for a new horror project, plot details are being kept tightly under wraps, and no casting or release date has been announced.
The announcement comes after an incredible run for Barker.
His horror film Obsession became one of the genre’s biggest recent success stories, earning more than $297 million worldwide and turning the young filmmaker into one of Hollywood’s most sought-after directors. Barker’s next film, Anything But Ghosts, is already generating buzz with a cast that includes Aaron Paul, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Violet McGraw.
Now, Universal is making it clear that it sees Barker as a long-term creative partner.
Universal and Blumhouse Praise Barker’s Vision
In a statement shared with Deadline, Barker expressed his excitement about continuing his partnership with the studios.
“This film is something I’ve been excited to make for a while, and I’m thrilled to be re-teaming with Blumhouse Atomic Monster and Universal Film Group for it.”
He also praised the companies for championing original filmmaking, calling them the type of creative home “every filmmaker dreams of.”
The enthusiasm goes both ways.
Donna Langley, Chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, praised Barker’s ability to connect with audiences, saying he has an exceptional instinct for tapping into the cultural zeitgeist while continuing to push the boundaries of horror filmmaking. Meanwhile, James Wan and Jason Blum released a joint statement saying they’re proud to continue building a growing slate of projects with Barker and are excited to bring another original vision to audiences.
Familiar Horror Producers Return
The upcoming film will once again be produced by Roy Lee and Steven Schneider through Spooky Pictures, alongside Adam Hendricks and Greg Gilreath of Divide/Conquer. Universal Film Group will distribute the movie worldwide.
Although virtually nothing has been revealed about the story, the combination of Barker, Blumhouse Atomic Monster, and Universal has already generated significant excitement among horror fans eager to see what comes next.
Universal Continues Investing in Original Horror
The announcement is another sign that Universal Pictures remains heavily invested in original horror alongside its successful partnerships with Blumhouse and Atomic Monster. Over the past several years, the studios have delivered a steady stream of hit genre films while giving emerging filmmakers opportunities to tell original stories.
With Barker now attached to a third consecutive project, Universal is clearly betting that the filmmaker’s unique voice will continue resonating with audiences around the world.
As more details (including the film’s title, cast, and release date) are announced, we’ll be sure to keep you updated.
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