Following the huge success of her debut film Obsession, director Curry Barker’s next film is an original horror concept and is being developed in collaboration with Blumhouse Atomic Monster and Universal Film Group.
Barker will write, direct and produce his third feature film with Universal Pictures, following his previous relationships with Blumhouse’s Atomic Monster, Roy Lee and Stephen Schneider’s Spooky Pictures, and Adam Hendricks and Greg Gilreath’s Divide/Conquer. It is based on an original idea suggested by Barker, and plot details have not been revealed.
Barker’s second film, Anything But Ghosts, is currently in post-production at Blumhouse Atomic Monster and Focus Features, which released Obsession.
Director Barker said, “This film is one I’ve wanted to make for a while, and I’m thrilled to be teaming up again with Blumhouse Atomic Monster and Universal Film Group. They have created a home for the bold and original storytelling that every filmmaker dreams of, and I couldn’t think of a better collaborator for this film.”
“Callie Barker has an extraordinary ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist, combining an innate instinct for what resonates with audiences with an extraordinary talent for filmmaking,” said Donna Langley, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment. “Barker’s talent is redefining what’s possible, and we’re excited to continue our partnership with him.”
“With ‘Obsession,’ Curry has done something that only a handful of filmmakers in a generation have been able to do. He has created something completely original that connects with a mass audience. That connection is what we value most. The best filmmakers can work anywhere. James Wan and Jason Blum of Blumhouse Atomic Monster said: statement.
Blumhouse Atomic Monster, Spooky Pictures and Divide/Conquers were already signed on to star in Anything But Ghost before Obsession premiered in Toronto. Blumhouse Atomic Monster then joined Obsession as an executive producer.
“Obsession” became Focus Features’ highest-grossing release in history and is expected to cross $300 million worldwide this weekend.
Barker’s third film will be distributed worldwide by Universal Film Group.
Barker directed and stars in Anything But Ghosts, which he co-wrote with co-star Cooper Tomlinson. Co-stars include Aaron Paul and Bryce Dallas Howard, and it’s the story of two con artist paranormal investigators who are forced to confront real ghosts and the lies that back up their business.
Mr. Barker is repped by Underground, United Talent Agency, The Rede Company and Yorn Levine.
News of the deal was first reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
