Smile 3 taps David Bruckner to direct, Variety reports
David Bruckner is reportedly set to direct Smile 3, while creator Parker Finn stays on as producer and moves to Possession.
By Bianca Rossi · Entertainment Editor
2 min read
Smile 3 has reportedly found its new director: David Bruckner. Variety reports that Paramount has hired Bruckner to direct the third entry in the horror series, with Nick Antosca writing the screenplay.
Parker Finn, who wrote and directed the first two films, is not reported to be directing this time. According to Variety, Finn pitched the framework for the new installment and will remain involved as a producer.
Who is directing Smile 3?
Bruckner’s previous directing work includes 2022’s Hellraiser, 2017’s The Ritual and 2020’s The Night House, Variety reported. Antosca’s credits include creating Apple’s Cape Fear, co-creating Hulu’s The Act, and writing Antlers and Verity.
The creative handoff does not come with story details. Variety said no plot or cast has been disclosed for Smile 3, and no release date was included in its report.
That leaves plenty open for the next film. The first Smile starred Sosie Bacon as a therapist plagued by hallucinations after seeing a patient die. Its 2024 follow-up put Naomi Scott at the center as a pop singer facing disturbing events while on tour. Variety said the films have used separate stories and lead casts, so it remains unclear whether any performers will return.
What is Parker Finn doing instead?
Finn is directing Paramount’s remake of the 1981 supernatural thriller Possession, Variety reported. Callum Turner and Margaret Qualley are set to star, with the film dated for June 11, 2027.
Finn wrote and directed 2022’s Smile and 2024’s Smile 2. Variety reported that the original made $105 million in North America and $217 million worldwide, while the sequel brought in $69 million domestically and $139 million globally against a reported $28 million budget. Together, the franchise has cleared $350 million worldwide, according to the trade publication.
Paramount’s reported plan keeps Finn connected to the series he launched while putting Bruckner and Antosca in charge of the next chapter. For now, Variety’s report establishes the behind-the-camera lineup, not what horror awaits on screen.
This story draws on original reporting from Variety.