Dave Boyle To Direct Reimagining Of Japanese Horror Film Pulse

Dave Boyle has been attached to direct a reimagining of the 2001 Japanese horror film Pulse, with Sony’s Screen Gems and Spyglass Media Group co-developing the project. Boyle is also slated to undertake a script pass, building upon an initial draft by Luke Piotrowski. The production will be overseen by Parker Finn and Jonathan Fass through their company Bad Feeling, known for producing Finn’s directorial debut, Smile, and its upcoming sequel, Smile 2. The original Pulse, titled Kairo in Japan, was directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa and is celebrated for its atmospheric dread and commentary on modern isolation and technology's impact on human connection. The film follows a series of unsettling events linked to mysterious internet phenomena, leading to widespread despair and the disintegration of society. Its narrative explores themes of loneliness, the fear of the unknown, and the pervasive nature of digital communication. The film garnered critical acclaim for its unsettling tone and innovative approach to the horror genre, earning a Special Jury Prize at the 2001 Venice Film Festival. The reimagining aims to capture the essence of Kurosawa's original while potentially adapting its themes for a contemporary audience. Screen Gems, a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment, has a history of producing successful genre films, including the Underworld franchise and the Resident Evil series. Spyglass Media Group, an independent production company, has been active in developing and financing film and television projects, including the recent revival of the Scream franchise. Parker Finn's involvement through Bad Feeling signifies a focus on high-concept horror, building on the success of Smile, which grossed over $217 million worldwide against a $17 million budget. The original Pulse was distributed by Toho in Japan and later by The Weinstein Company in the United States. The film's critical reception in the US was largely positive, with many critics praising its unique brand of psychological horror and its exploration of existential dread. The decision to reimagine Pulse indicates a continued interest in adapting influential international horror films for Western audiences, following successful precedents like The Ring and Let the Right One In. The specific details regarding the plot and setting of the new Pulse adaptation have not yet been disclosed, but the involvement of Boyle, known for his work on films such as The Last Resort and 90 Feet From Paradise, suggests a director with a distinct vision for horror. The project is expected to leverage the established reputation of the original film while introducing new elements to resonate with a modern cinematic landscape. The collaboration between Screen Gems, Spyglass, and Bad Feeling points to a significant investment in the project, aiming to deliver a compelling and terrifying horror experience.