Two things that have historically produced great films (though not exclusively great) are coming together, according to a recent unexpected announcement at Comic-Con in San Diego. Guillermo del Toro, director of the Hellboy films and Pan’s Labyrinth, is going to direct a Disney ride-based film telling the tale of the Haunted Mansion. And as a fan of del Toro, the Haunted Mansion ride, and previous Disney-ride film Pirates of the Caribbean (though not the sequels), I am excited to see what madness will come about with this latest attraction.
Guillermo had this to say in his announcement:
“Dark imagery is an integral part of the Walt Disney legacy. After all, Disney himself was the father of some really chilling moments and characters – think Chernabog from Fantasia or Maleficent as the Dragon or the Evil Queen in Snow White,” said del Toro. “I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of my own adaptation of the original theme park attraction Walt envisioned and that remains- for me- the most desirable piece of real estate in the whole world!”
And for anyone worried that del Toro will be forced to make himself more family-friendly (read: campy and stupid) for Disney’s sake, you are thankfully mistaken. This won’t be that … other Haunted Mansion. From the Washington Post:
He also made it clear that this film will be nothing like the family-oriented Eddie Murphy version released in 2003.
“We are not returning Eddie Murphy’s call,” he said, to a chorus of approving whoops from the crowd.
We want this to be “the haunted house movie that a generation remembers and loves,” he added.
The Haunted Mansion not only spooks with classic scare tactics, but tells a quite macabre tale. I doubt there is anyone better equipped to interpret and present the story behind the mansion than Guillermo del Toro. So hurry up and make this movie!
(Via Deadline)
