This is an odd pairing.
Dan Trachtenberg, known for “Prey” and “Predator: Badlands,” has signed on to direct a new film inspired by “Sleeping Beauty” for Disney, according to Deadline.
Plot details are being kept under wraps, but the idea is to reimagine the classic fairy tale.
Trachtenberg came up with the story alongside Raya McClendon, while Alex Anfanger and Dan Schimpf are writing the script. That's an interesting combination. Anfanger and Schimpf come from an absurdist comedy background, which could hint that this isn't going to be a straight-faced retelling.
This latest project continues Disney's partnership with Trachtenberg after “Prey,” a streaming hit for Hulu, and “Predator: Badlands.” Trachtenberg is currently in pre-production on a mystery project at Paramount and is attached to “Freddy the 13th,” an animated horror comedy for Paramount Animation.
Trachtenberg recently signed a three-year first look deal at Paramount. His relationship with Paramount dates back to “10 Cloverfield Lane,” a tensely orchestrated sci-fi thriller that marked his feature directorial debut. That film went on to gross more than $110M worldwide on a reported $15M budget. It was the film that made me keep an eye out for Trachtenberg as a talent to watch.
Why not make another “Predator” movie instead? It’s complicated. Yes, “Badlands” was well received. The problem is what it cost. With a budget of $105M, it’s the most expensive “Predator” movie, and it finished with a worldwide total of $184M. That’s an estimated $60–80M theatrical loss, with Disney likely relying on Hulu, Disney+ and home video to make up the difference. So while the goodwill is real, the math on a bigger, pricier “Predator” sequel is harder to justify, and it makes sense that Trachtenberg would pivot to something new.
David Fincher has decided not to renew his deal at Netflix, a turning point in his long relationship with the streamer. His current deal expires next year.