What's Happening?
Searchlight Pictures has acquired the rights to adapt Grady Hendrix's comedic horror novel 'Horrorstör' into a film. The novel, which was published in 2014, is set in an Ikea-like furniture superstore named Orsk in Cleveland, where supernatural events
unfold. Jonathan Levine, known for his work on 'Tell Me Lies' and 'Nine Perfect Strangers', will direct and write the adaptation. The production team includes Brian Oliver of New Republic, Gillian Bohrer of Megamix, Adam Goldworm of Aperture Entertainment, and Brad Fischer. The project was initially intended for television with Fox, involving Charlie Kaufman and Josh Schwartz as executive producers, but later transitioned to a film under New Republic. Hendrix, who previously saw his novel 'My Best Friend’s Exorcism' adapted by Amazon, will serve as an executive producer alongside Quirk Books.
Why It's Important?
The adaptation of 'Horrorstör' signifies a continued interest in unique horror narratives within Hollywood, particularly those that blend humor with supernatural elements. This project highlights the trend of adapting popular novels into films, which can attract existing fans of the book while reaching new audiences. For Searchlight Pictures, known for its focus on distinctive and high-quality films, this acquisition aligns with its strategy to diversify its portfolio with innovative content. The involvement of Jonathan Levine, a director with a track record of successfully navigating multiple genres, suggests a promising execution of the film. This development could also impact the careers of those involved, potentially leading to further opportunities in the horror-comedy genre.
What's Next?
As the project moves forward, the next steps will likely involve finalizing the script and casting key roles. Searchlight Pictures, along with the production team, will oversee these developments, aiming to maintain the novel's unique blend of horror and comedy. The film's production timeline and release date will be determined as these elements come together. Industry observers and fans of the novel will be watching closely for announcements regarding the cast and any creative decisions that might influence the adaptation's fidelity to the source material. The film's success could pave the way for more adaptations of Hendrix's works or similar genre-blending narratives.
