Horror fans face a thrilling schedule shuffle as director JT Mollner locks his next target. The filmmaker will shoot the creature feature Skeletons with Brie Larson before tackling the highly anticipated Texas Chainsaw Massacre series for A24. This intense production update arrives just as the project heads to the European Film Market for major sales.
Filming Schedule Shifts for the Creature Feature
JT Mollner has become one of the most sought-after names in Hollywood following the massive success of his thriller Strange Darling. While news broke recently about his involvement in a new Texas Chainsaw Massacre series with Glen Powell, his immediate focus is elsewhere. Reports confirm that Mollner will first direct Skeletons.
This project was formerly known as Fail-Safe.
The timing is critical for eager fans. Cameras are expected to roll on Skeletons prior to the production of the A24 horror series. This prioritizes a fresh, original story over the franchise reboot for the time being. It allows Mollner to capitalize on his current momentum with a standalone feature that promises high-concept scares.
Brie Larson Skeletons horror movie JJ Abrams Bad Robot production
Brie Larson and JJ Abrams Team Up for Horror
The creative team behind Skeletons boasts undeniable star power and industry heavyweights. Academy Award winner Brie Larson is set to lead the cast. She brings her dramatic weight from films like Room and blockbuster presence from Captain Marvel to the genre.
JJ Abrams is producing the film through his Bad Robot banner.
Abrams expressed massive excitement about the collaboration during the project’s initial launch. He highlighted the unique blend of terror and emotion in the script.
“It’s a horror film that is as sweet and moving as it is terrifying. To have JT Mollner in the director’s chair is a dream come true.”
Brian Duffield wrote the screenplay. He is well known for crafting the alien invasion hit No One Will Save You. This combination of Duffield’s writing, Mollner’s direction and Larson’s acting creates a perfect storm for horror enthusiasts.
Dark Secrets Behind the Script and Story
Skeletons is not just a standard monster movie. It adapts a short story by author Philip Fracassi. The narrative promises a psychological twist on the creature feature subgenre.
The plot follows a young boy who uncovers a disturbing truth about his parents.
He realizes they are hiding a dark secret regarding his mother’s true nature. This premise suggests a film that balances family drama with supernatural elements. It fits perfectly with the “elevated horror” trend that dominates the current box office.
Key Talent Roster:
- Director: JT Mollner (Strange Darling)
- Lead Actress: Brie Larson (The Marvels)
- Writer: Brian Duffield (Spontaneous)
- Producer: JJ Abrams (Bad Robot)
International Sales and Distribution Rights
The business side of the film is moving just as fast as the creative side. The project is currently being shopped at the European Film Market in Berlin. This is a key venue where independent films secure funding and global distribution deals.
FilmNation is handling international sales for the movie.
Domestic rights in the United States are being co-managed by CAA Media Finance and WME Independent. The title change from Fail-Safe to Skeletons likely aims to make the movie more marketable to international audiences. It offers a sharper and more genre-specific hook for buyers browsing the market.
This strategic move to the European Film Market confirms the project is active and ready for production.
Summary:
JT Mollner is set to direct the creature feature Skeletons before moving on to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series. The film stars Brie Larson and is produced by JJ Abrams under Bad Robot. Based on a Philip Fracassi story, the script by Brian Duffield follows a boy discovering his mother’s dark secret. The project is currently seeking international buyers at the European Film Market.
We want to hear from you. Are you more excited for an original creature feature or the return of Leatherface? Let us know in the comments below! #SkeletonsMovie #JTMollner
