Exclusive: James Wan to Produce New Installment in 'Paranormal Activity' Franchise

Horror maestro James Wan, renowned for his work on the Conjuring and Insidious franchises, is now stepping into the world of Paranormal Activity. The upcoming installment comes following the merger of Wans production company Atomic Monster with Jason Blums Blumhouse, the original producers of the franchise. Paramount Pictures will co-finance, co-produce, and distribute the new film.

Oren Peli, who created the 2007 original Paranormal Activity on a modest $15,000 budget, returning as a producer through Solana Films, will collaborate with Blumhouse and Wan. Both Paramount and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster are prioritizing the project as a major theatrical release.

Wan expressed his excitement: Ive admired Paranormal Activity since the first film, with its slow-building tension and ability to make the unseen terrifying. Im eager to expand its legacy and guide the next chapter of this iconic found-footage series.

The original film, made for $15,000, became one of the most profitable movies ever, launching Blumhouse into prominence. Blum commented, Working with James on this revival of the franchise that started it all for Blumhouse is a dream come true. Ill be closely involved as we introduce this new chapter. While we have a bigger budget than the original, one thing remains: dont watch it alone.

Blum also highlighted the collaboration with Paramount, praising executives Josh Greenstein, Dana Goldberg, David Ellison, and Jeff Shell for their role in bringing the franchise back to the big screen.

The Paranormal Activity series has now spanned seven films: Paranormal Activity 2 (2010), Paranormal Activity 3 (2011), Paranormal Activity 4 (2012), The Marked Ones (2014), The Ghost Dimension (2015), and Next of Kin (2021).

Paramount co-chairs Josh Greenstein and Dana Goldberg said, We are thrilled to relaunch the legendary Paranormal Activity franchise with two of horrors most visionary talents, James and Jason. Jasons influence in shaping the franchise globally, combined with James innovative storytelling, sets the stage for an electrifying new installment.

Veteran producer Steven Schneider will serve as executive producer for Room 101, Inc., while Michael Clear and Judson Scott will executive produce for Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, with Alayna Glasthal overseeing operations for the company.

Author: Zoe Harrison