While he has worked in the horror industry for quite some time, Leigh Whannell has been surging as a true breakout auteur in the horror genre. Debuting with 2018’s low-budget sci-fi thriller Upgrade (still a fan favorite here at ScreenGeek), Whannell flexed some impressive ability despite working with a low budget, crafting a cult favorite that is still beloved today. His follow-up The Invisible Man showed a gradual advancement in scope, effectively incorporating ruminations on abusive relationships alongside the film’s impactful horror elements. Many assumed The Invisible Man would be Whannell’s lone offering for Universal’s Monster Universe, but it appears he is returning with another promising project.
According to Deadline, Leigh Whannell is in final talks to write and direct Universal’s new Wolfman film, with Ryan Gosling already attached as the star of the project. Blumehouse president Jason Blum will be serving as a producer, with Lauren Schuker Blum and Rebecca Angelo working as co-writers. Deadline also shared information on the complicated courting process to secure Whannell’s talents for the project:
“Whannell and Gosling have wanted to work together for some time, but the director originally demurred when first offered Wolfman. Schuker Blum is Jason Blum’s wife, and the producer asked the director to reconsider. Whannell has a first look deal across film and television with Blumhouse, for projects he writes, directs or produces and over the last decade, Whannell and Blumhouse have collaborated on seven projects.”
Considering Whannell’s vast ability, I am ecstatic to see the writer/director re-team with Jason Blum on another modernization of Universal’s classic monster films. The duo did a great job reinventing The Invisible Man for the modern times, and considering Wolfman’s basis in our broken news culture (early word says it has major Nightcrawler vibes), there’s room for an equally exciting and smart reinvention of a tried and true character.
Are you excited for The Wolfman? Let us know in the comments!