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‘Smile 3’ Taps David Bruckner to Direct Next Chapter of Paramount Horror Franchise

The filmmaker behind The Night House and Hellraiser takes over directing duties as Parker Finn remains involved as a producer.

By Ledger Staff ·

The Melrose Gate entrance to Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood; illustrative file photograph, not Smile 3 artwork
The Melrose Gate entrance to Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood; illustrative file photograph, not Smile 3 artwork · Chris Brown (zoonabar) / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0 · Cropped and resized · CC BY 2.0

Paramount Pictures has selected horror filmmaker David Bruckner to direct Smile 3, marking a new creative chapter for the successful supernatural franchise.

Bruckner takes over from series creator Parker Finn, who will remain involved as a producer alongside Temple Hill Entertainment.

Screenwriter Nick Antosca will develop the screenplay using a story framework created by Finn.

Bruckner previously directed The Night House and the 2022 reimagining of Hellraiser, establishing a strong background in psychological and supernatural horror.

The original Smile earned approximately $217 million worldwide following its 2022 release, while the 2024 sequel generated approximately $138 million.

The franchise has become one of Paramount's recognizable contemporary horror properties.

No official release date for the third installment has been announced.

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