A few weeks ago, news emerged that, amid a bidding war, an unnamed studio had offered Curry Barker, director of horror mega-hit Obsession, $10 million for his next film before he even pitched it. Now, the Hollywood Reporter reports that Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster have emerged victorious with an offer the trade describes as a “rich eight-figure deal.” Presumably, it’s worth a fair bit more than $10 million.
Barker has already completed his second film, Anything but Ghosts, which will be distributed by Focus Features. He’s also got a Texas Chain Saw Massacre reboot in the works at A24. This new deal is for yet another horror pic on top of the two he’s already got in the works. Dude’s gonna be busy for the next few years.
According to the deal Focus Features, which is owned by Universal, made for Anything but Ghosts, Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster had first-look rights for Barker’s next film. Apparently, they liked what they heard enough to put together a better offer.
While no plot details are available yet, the film will reportedly be another original horror story. In a statement, Barker said, “This film is something I’ve been excited to make for a while, and I’m thrilled to be reteaming with Blumhouse Atomic Monster and Universal Film Group for it. They’ve built the kind of home for bold, original storytelling that every filmmaker dreams of, and I couldn’t imagine better collaborators for this film.”
Given Obsession‘s historic box-office success, the acquisition was likely a no-brainer for Universal. Barker is one of the hottest young filmmakers in Hollywood right now and interest in his next project is high. NBCUniversal Entertainment chairman Donna Langley said in a statement to THR, “Curry Barker has an exceptional ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist, pairing an innate instinct for what resonates with audiences with extraordinary filmmaking prowess. Barker’s talent is redefining what’s possible and we’re thrilled to continue our partnership with him.”
Barker will write, produce, and direct the upcoming film, which has no set release date yet.
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