Has Hollywood run out of ideas? Is the well of creativity so dry that they have to redo every piece of work mentioned in the books? The most recent example is Andrzej Żuławski's 1981 horror movie “Possession” which is going to be remade by Parker Finn who directed “Smile”. The original Possession is a bizarre movie and therefore any attempt at remaking it is both courageous and perhaps reckless.
Yet, it's happening. Parker Finn has secretly linked up with Robert Pattinson, who is expected to work as the producer of the remake and possibly the main actor. This has already stirred some sort of bidding conflict from elite studios such as A24, Netflix, Paramount, Sony, and Warner Bros, with meetings expected to commence this week. Managers have referred to the remake's “batshit” and “out there” narrative, outlining its high potential for sales. The next question is how to advertise this grandiose project.
The extremity of Pattinson's varied performances makes him right for entering a film that Adjani brought to the screen with so much force. “Possession” was about a spy, played by Sam Neill, who comes back home to find his wife (Adjani) in West Berlin in bed with another man and becomes a nightmare. Though initially received with a mixed critical response, this grim exploration of marriage based on Żuławski's experiences is now regarded as a masterpiece.
After finishing “Smile 2”, which is slated to premiere on October 18, Finn is most likely to star in the “Possession” remake. In fact, if he is the kind of director who is able to mix psychological horror with mainstream appeal, than Finn would be perfect for adapting Żuławski's horror masterpiece.
In conclusion, the remake of “Possession” can be seen as quite an experiment, although with Parker Finn as its director and Robert Pattinson as its star, the film could turn into an unforgettable experience. Here's hoping they retain the gritty feel of the original, but add their own spin to one of the best horror films out there.
