Curry Barker to Write and Direct New Horror Movie for Universal and Blumhouse Atomic Monster

Universal Film Group and Blumhouse Atomic Monster confirmed Thursday that director Curry Barker will write, direct, and produce a new original horror movie. Barker, who saw global box office success with “Obsession,” reportedly signed an eight-figure deal for the project, marking his third collaboration with the studios.

The unnamed project stems from an original pitch provided by Barker. It will be produced by Adam Hendricks and Greg Gilreath’s Divide/Conquer alongside Roy Lee and Steven Schneider’s Spooky Pictures.

Did You Know? Curry Barker, the 26-year-old director behind “Obsession,” began his career as an internet personality before transitioning into professional filmmaking.

Why is Universal Film Group expanding its partnership with Curry Barker?

The studios are leveraging Barker’s track record of connecting with wide audiences. NBCUniversal Entertainment Chairman Donna Langley stated that Barker possesses an “exceptional ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist” and “extraordinary filmmaking prowess.”

This deal expands a relationship that began before the premiere of “Obsession” in Toronto. Blumhouse Atomic Monster, Spooky Pictures, and Divide/Conquer had already boarded Barker’s “Anything But Ghosts,” while Blumhouse Atomic Monster served as an executive producer for “Obsession,” which Focus Features distributed in May.

What do James Wan and Jason Blum say about Barker’s impact?

Blumhouse Atomic Monster’s Jason Blum and James Wan noted that Barker achieved something “only a handful of filmmakers manage in a generation” by creating an original work that reached a massive audience. They stated that this connection is the primary focus of their production goals.

Curry Barker’s Next Horror Movie Lands Massive Universal Deal

Barker expressed his own enthusiasm in a statement to media, calling the studios a “home for bold, original storytelling” and stating he could not imagine better collaborators for the film.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that an eight-figure deal for an original pitch indicates a strategic shift toward high-value, creator-driven horror. By securing Barker, the studios are likely betting on his specific ability to bridge the gap between internet-driven audience trends and traditional cinematic success.

What happens next for this original horror project?

Because plot details remain under wraps, the project may move into a formal scripting phase based on Barker’s initial pitch. The production could potentially follow the distribution model of “Obsession,” utilizing Universal’s network of companies.

Barker continues to be represented by Yorn Levine, The Lede Company, United Talent Agency, and Underground as the project develops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is producing the new Curry Barker film?
The project will be produced by Divide/Conquer (Adam Hendricks and Greg Gilreath) and Spooky Pictures (Roy Lee and Steven Schneider).

What is the reported value of the deal?
The deal for Barker to write, direct, and produce the film is reported to be in the eight-figure range.

What previous films has Curry Barker worked on with these studios?
Barker’s previous collaborations include the global box office success “Obsession” and the project “Anything But Ghosts.”

Do you prefer original horror concepts or established movie franchises?