One of the masters of modern horror cinema, Wes Craven is dearly missed by fans the world over. Craven continued developing projects right up until his untimely death in August of 2015, and whilst he rarely took the director’s chair in his final decade, Craven was often busy overseeing remakes of his previous work.
To that end, one project the horror legend was heavily involved in for several years was a remake of his 1991 hit The People Under the Stairs. Whilst initial remake plans fell through, Craven was reportedly developing a television series adaption with SyFy right up until his death.
Given that this seemed to be a project Craven had vigour for, we’re delighted to report that The People Under the Stairs will finally receive that remake!
As of November 15th 2023, word reaches us that a remake of Craven’s classic is in active development with Universal. Whilst little is known due to the early status of the project, we do know that acclaimed filmmaker Jordan Peele will produce under his MokeyPaw Productions label.
We can also confirm that Peele collaborator and Doom Patrol scribe Ezra Claytan Daniels will pen a brand-new script, based off Craven’s original.
Currently this is the only concrete news we have. However, given the success Candyman had under Peele’s supervision, we are quite sure this property is in the right hands.
Craven’s 1991 original tells the harrowing story of a young boy from a down-trodden neighbourhood thrust into a nightmare whilst trying to extort his wealthy landlords. In the bowels of their sprawling home lurk the children they have rejected as “imperfect,” and now that someone knows their secret, the psychotic couple can’t let him escape.
Craven’s original topped the box-office for two weeks in 1991, becoming one of his most highly-regarded non-franchise works. With the legacy attached, it is our hope that Peele and all other involved with the remake do Wes Craven proud.
