I’m really surprised Disney is going back to the Haunted Mansion well after Eddie Murphy got his hands on it, but it looks like Disney is willing to give the property another go at the box office with the announcement that Guillermo del Toro will direct develop The Haunted Mansion for the House of Mouse.
“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!”
With his unique style, del Toro should bring a whole new look and feel to the Disney ride turned movie franchise. I wonder how his unique vision will work in a New Orleans setting, though? Kind of sucks to be The Hobbit right now…
UPDATE: In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, del Toro said he was only developing the project with Disney and will co-write the script, but whether or not he will direct will be determined at a later day.
via Disney