Based on the legendary tale, a menacing new horror film, “Pinocchio: Unstrung,” prepares to terrify audiences. Robert Englund, the iconic Freddy Krueger, joins the frightfest, promising scares alongside seasoned horror actor Richard Brake as Geppetto.
Adding to the eerie atmosphere, the chilling Pinocchio puppet sports horrifyingly realistic, fully practical effects crafted by Emmy-winning special effects master Todd Masters, known for his work on “Tales From the Crypt: Demon Knight” and “Child’s Play”.
Directed by Rhys Frake-Waterfield and produced by Scott Jeffrey – the creative forces behind the viral sensation “Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey” – “Pinocchio: Unstrung” follows young James uncovering his grandfather Geppetto’s deadly secret: a malevolent Pinocchio. This dark twist promises thrills, chills, and plenty of gruesome gore.
The project is a part of Jagged Edge Productions’ Twisted Childhood Universe, a series of bold reimaginings of beloved childhood classics. Other twisted tales in the universe include “Bambi: The Reckoning” and the ever-popular “Blood and Honey” films. These narratives are building towards an epic crossover event, “Poohniverse Monsters Assemble,” uniting the franchise’s horrifying incarnations of childhood icons.
“Pinocchio: Unstrung” is set to hit theaters in summer 2025, promising a unique and R-rated take on the classic story. Fans of the genre can expect a high body count, shocking subversion of the original narrative, and a generous dose of practical gore. Brace yourselves for a nightmare unlike any other, as this iconic puppet prepares to unleash his terrifying truth.
Interview Title: “Unraveling the Darkness: The Making of ‘Pinocchio: Unstrung'”
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome, everyone, to another exclusive interview with some of the most fascinating figures in the arts. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Lila Thompson, a film historian and expert in modern horror cinema. We’re here to discuss the highly anticipated horror film “Pinocchio: Unstrung.” Thank you for joining us, Dr. Thompson.
Dr. Lila Thompson: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to delve into this unique take on such a well-known story.
Interviewer: The classic tale of Pinocchio has always been one of adventure and moral lessons. “Pinocchio: Unstrung” seems to pivot dramatically into the horror genre. What do you think motivated the filmmakers to take this approach?
Dr. Thompson: It’s an intriguing shift, isn’t it? The original story, while often seen as charming, possesses dark undertones—abandonment, deception, and the loss of innocence. These themes resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. The filmmakers likely recognized that by amplifying these elements into a horror narrative, they could tap into societal fears and offer a fresh perspective on the classic tale.
Interviewer: Absolutely! It seems that horror adaptations are becoming a trend. From “Little Red Riding Hood” to “Snow White,” we’ve seen many beloved stories reimagined in darker contexts. Why do you think horror resonates so well with these timeless tales?
Dr. Thompson: Horror offers a powerful medium to explore the psychological depths of characters and the complexity of moral choices. These tales often have a moralistic element, and by placing them in a horror context, filmmakers can challenge audiences to confront their fears and the consequences of their actions. Horror invites viewers to explore the “what ifs” and the darker sides of human nature that are often glossed over in traditional adaptations.
Interviewer: That’s a fascinating perspective! How do you think ”Pinocchio: Unstrung” will reinterpret characters like Pinocchio and Geppetto within this horror framework?
Dr. Thompson: I anticipate a much more psychologically complex portrayal of both characters. Pinocchio may embody not just the innocent quest for identity but also the horror of becoming something he’s not—perhaps a puppet controlled by dark forces. Geppetto could be portrayed as a tormented figure, riddled with guilt and fear for creating life that he can’t control. This could open up discussions about responsibility and the creator’s role in their creation.
Interviewer: Interesting! Do you foresee certain horror elements that could enhance the storytelling?
Dr. Thompson: Definitely! The use of atmospheric soundscapes and unsettling visuals will likely play a crucial role in building tension. Imagine scenes where Pinocchio senses a lurking presence, or the moment he realizes that the world is far more sinister than he anticipated. Symbolism, like the strings of a puppet, could represent control and the loss of freedom, creating a layered narrative that invites deeper engagement.
Interviewer: It seems like “Pinocchio: Unstrung” is poised to not only entertain but also provoke thought. Do you think this new interpretation maintains respect for the original tale?
Dr. Thompson: Certainly! If done thoughtfully, it can pay homage to the original while expanding its relevance. The horror context itself is an invitation to revisit the story’s themes and extract new meanings. As long as the filmmakers approach this with reverence for the source material, I believe it can shine a new light on Pinocchio’s journey.
Interviewer: That’s an encouraging outlook, Dr. Thompson. As the horror genre continues to evolve and challenge boundaries, I can’t wait to see how audiences respond to this new version of Pinocchio. Thank you for sharing your insights with us today!
Dr. Thompson: It was my pleasure! I’m looking forward to the film’s release as well. It’s an exciting time for horror enthusiasts and fairy tale fans alike!
Interviewer: Stay tuned, everyone! “Pinocchio: Unstrung” promises to be a haunting reimagining of a classic, and we’ll be here to discuss its impact. Thank you for joining us for this engaging conversation!