"Paranormal Activity" enlists renowned horror director to rejuvenate fading franchise

Acclaimed horror director James Wan is set to produce a new entry in the Paranormal Activity series. This untitled sequel marks the first installment following 2021s Paranormal Activity: Next of Kin and will be developed by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster.

Wan, the creative force behind the Conjuring, Insidious, and Saw franchises, is bringing his signature touch to this next chapter of found footage horror. The collaboration unites Wans production company, Atomic Monster, with Blumhouse, the studio known for its highly successful low-budget horror films, alongside Paramount Pictures, which handles global distribution.

While plot details remain under wraps, the project is described as a priority development for all parties involved. Wan commented, Ive always admired Paranormal Activity for its subtle scares and ability to make the unseen terrifying. I look forward to expanding its legacy and shaping the next evolution of this franchise. Jason Blum added, Working with James to breathe new life into the series that started it all for Blumhouse is exactly what we envisioned with the Atomic Monster merger. The budget may be bigger than the original $15,000, but one thing remainsdont watch it alone.

The original Paranormal Activity, released in 2007, became a cultural phenomenon, turning a micro-budget of $15,000 into nearly $200 million worldwide. Its minimalist stylehandheld cameras, single-location storytelling, and mostly unknown actorssparked the modern found footage movement. The franchise has since produced six sequels, though their box office performance has gradually declined, with the latest installment released exclusively on Paramount+.

Wan is recognized as one of the most commercially successful directors today, with combined franchise earnings from Saw, Insidious, and The Conjuring surpassing $4.5 billion. His influence continues across horror and mainstream cinema alike.

While The Conjuring Universe recently concluded with The Conjuring: Last Rites, Wan has expressed interest in other projects, including a potential film focused on the Crooked Man, a character from The Conjuring 2. Fans often ask me about a Crooked Man movie, and I would love to explore it someday if the studio agrees, he said.

Author: Grace Ellison