Horror movie legend James Wan, known for his work on supernatural franchises like The Conjuring and Insidious – is involved in an upcoming revival of the Paranormal Activity film series.
James Wan is producing a new Paranormal Activity film.
The horror movie icon – best known for his work on franchises like Insidious and The Conjuring – is joining one of the paranormal genres most significant series after his Atomic Monster company merged with Jason Blum’s Blumhouse studio.
As revealed by The Hollywood Reporter, the eight film in the franchise will have Paramount on board to co-finance.
Wan said: “I’ve been a huge admirer of Paranormal Activity since the brilliant first movie, with its creeping slow burn and subtle ability to make the unseen terrifying.
“I’m looking forward to expanding on its legacy and helping shape the next evolution of this scary found-footage franchise.”
The original film – which was released in 2007 – had a budget of just $15,000.
It turned Blumhouse into a household name after Blum discovered the film and provided additional funding, with the release becoming one of the most profitable movies ever.
Blum added: “Diving in with James for this exciting rebirth of the franchise that started it all for Blumhouse is exactly what we dreamed of when we merged with Atomic Monster.
“I’ll be actively involved with him to introduce this new chapter.
“Thankfully, we’re able to spend a little more than the $15,000 we had on the first movie, but one thing will remain the same — do not see it alone.”
The original film was followed by Paranormal Activity 2 (2010), Paranormal Activity 3 (2011) and Paranormal Activity 4 (2012).
Two years later, spinoff The Marked Ones hit the big screen, followed by 2015’s Ghost Dimension and Next of Kin in 2021.
Blum paid tribute to Paramount’s involvement as everybody sets their sights on a rejuvenation of the franchise.
He continued: “We look forward to partnering with Josh Greenstein, Dana Goldberg, David Ellison, Jeff Shell and their teams at Paramount as we bring Paranormal Activity back to life.”
Greenstein and Goldberg, Paramount Pictures’ co-stairs, said: “We’re thrilled to reignite the iconic Paranormal Activity franchise with two of the horror genre’s most visionary talents, James and Jason.
“Jason’s role in shaping this franchise into a global cultural touchstone, together with James’ singular taste and track record for innovative storytelling, sets the stage for a thrilling new chapter.”
Meanwhile, a separate Paranormal Activity stage adaptation inspired by the supernatural horror franchise is coming to London’s West End for a 12-week season followed its run at the Leeds Playhouse last summer.
The new story will be directed by immersive theatre pioneer and Punchdrunk’s Founder and Artistic Director Felix Barrett.
It has been penned by playwright Levi Holloway, whose previous work includes Broadway play Grey House.
The show’s story follows James and Lou who move from Chicago to London to escape their past, but they soon discover that places aren’t haunted, people are.
Horror icon James Wan on board for new Paranormal Activity film
