Chloé Zhao is having one hell of a 2021 already. We’re only in early February and her recent film, “Nomadland,” has been released to rave reviews and has earned a ton of awards recognition, with Oscars likely in her future. Then the fun is only going to keep going, as “Eternals,” her big Marvel film, is set to hit in November. All that to say, Zhao is on the cusp of being able to do whatever the hell she wants to do next. And apparently, that includes a sci-fi, Western version of “Dracula.” Yes, you read that right.
According to THR, Universal has signed on Zhao to write and direct a new version of “Dracula” for the studio. But don’t go thinking the filmmaker is going to be beholden to Bram Stoker’s original vision for the vampire or she’s interested in remaking the Bela Lugosi classic from decades ago. No, Zhao has something completely different in mind. The report claims that Zhao’s “Dracula” is best described as “an original, futuristic, sci-fi Western.” Color us intrigued.
“Chloé’s singular lens shines a light on stories of the overlooked and misunderstood,” said Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer. “We are thrilled to be working with her as she reimagines one of the most iconic outsider characters ever created.”
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Zhao added, “I’ve always been fascinated by vampires and the concept of the Other they embody. I’m very excited to work with Donna, Peter, and the team at Universal to reimagine such a beloved character.”
“Reimagine” seems to be the buzz word in those statements, huh? And it’s clear by turning “Dracula” into a sci-fi Western, that’s exactly what Zhao is doing. As mentioned, she’s currently doing the awards circuit for “Nomadland,” and if all goes to plan, she’ll begin her Marvel press for “Eternals” soon enough (that is, if the film doesn’t get pushed again). So, we aren’t sure when Zhao will begin work on this new film.
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Also unclear is how this film might affect the forthcoming “Dracula” film that is being directed by Karyn Kusama and produced by Blumhouse. That was previously announced almost a year ago and is expected to be faithful to the classic concept of the character. Obviously, these films don’t have to compete, as we’ve seen plenty of variations on “Dracula” over the decades, but it’s clear that Universal is willing to take big chances with its classic monster characters. In addition to “Dracula,” the studio is also working on “Wolfman,” with Ryan Gosling attached.