Paramount Pictures is officially moving forward with Smile 3, bringing in a new creative team to lead the high-grossing horror franchise. David Bruckner has been hired to direct the third installment, taking over for franchise creator Parker Finn.
Finn, who wrote and directed the first two films, will remain involved as a producer alongside Temple Hill. The third chapter is reportedly based on a story pitch and framework developed by Finn, though he is stepping back from the director’s chair to focus on other projects. Chief among these is his upcoming remake of the 1981 cult classic Possession for Paramount, which is scheduled for release on June 11, 2027.
To pen the screenplay for Smile 3, the studio has tapped Nick Antosca. Antosca carries a significant horror pedigree, having created the anthology series Channel Zero and co-written the 2021 supernatural horror film Antlers. The hiring of both Bruckner and Antosca signals a shift in the franchise’s structure, potentially moving toward a model that incorporates different prominent voices within the genre while maintaining Finn’s foundational concept.
A Proven Horror Pedigree
David Bruckner joins the production with a well-established reputation for atmospheric and psychological horror. His previous directing credits include The Ritual, The Night House, and the 2022 Hellraiser reboot. Bruckner’s appointment comes as he manages a busy slate that includes a remake of The Blob and the upcoming project The Caretaker.
The transition in leadership follows the massive commercial success of the series. To date, the franchise has grossed more than $350 million worldwide across its first two entries. While specific plot details for the third film remain under wraps, the new directors set for Smile 3 and the writing team suggest Paramount is looking to maintain the series’ momentum as a pillar of its modern horror output.
As of now, there is no confirmed release date or casting information for Smile 3. Production timelines will likely depend on the finalization of the script and the schedules of the new creative team. Meanwhile, Finn’s Possession remake is already moving through development.
