Get ready for a terrifyingly fresh take on a classic horror tale! Acclaimed director Nikyatu Jusu, who shook audiences with her chilling 2022 folk-horror masterpiece Nanny, is set to unveil a mind-bending new vision of The Fly. According to Deadline, Jusu’s version will be firmly rooted in David Cronenberg’s 1986 cult classic universe but promises a groundbreaking, original narrative. Prepare to buckle up, because Jusu will be both directing and scripting this chilling journey into the realm of the grotesque.
While the plot details remain shrouded in secrecy, if Jusu draws inspiration from Cronenberg’s masterpiece, which earned an Oscar for its gruesomely realistic special effects, viewers can brace themselves for a visceral rollercoaster of body horror.
Cronenberg’s film masterfully delves into the cutthroat world of scientific ambition and the unethical practices of powerful corporations driving dangerous research. It also famously captured the brilliant on-screen chemistry between then-married leads Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis, delivering unforgettable moments like the iconic "Cheeseburger!" scene. Cronenberg’s The Fly itself drew inspiration from a 1950s short story by George Langelaan and the 1958 film starring Vincent Price, cementing its place in horror history.
This The Fly project is just the latest addition to Jusu’s horror repertoire. Back in 2022, Deadline reported her plans to expand her 2019 short film Suicide by Sunlight, a thought-provoking exploration of Black vampires. In the same year, news broke that she would be directing a sequel to the groundbreaking Night of the Living Dead, although updates on this project have been scarce.
Meanwhile, another zombie classic, George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead franchise, is also seeing a revival. Last week, it was announced that Twilight of the Dead, the final installment in Romero’s iconic zombie saga, directed by Brad Anderson, has secured a stellar cast including Milla Jovovich and Betty Gabriel.
Deadline suggests that Jusu’s The Fly resurgence is riding a wave of renewed interest in body horror, fueled by the success of Demi Moore’s latest hit, The Substance. What are your thoughts on this terrifying reimagining of The Fly taking flight once more?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Nikyatu Jusu
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Nikyatu! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Your previous work on Nanny has garnered a lot of attention for its unique blend of horror and cultural commentary. How does that inform your approach to reimagining a classic like The Fly?
Nikyatu Jusu (NJ): Thanks for having me! Nanny was a deeply personal project for me, exploring themes of motherhood, identity, and the immigrant experience. With The Fly, while it’s a different story, I still intend to layer in social commentary. I believe horror is a powerful medium for exploring the darker aspects of the human condition, whether through personal or more universal struggles.
TNE: That’s fascinating! David Cronenberg’s original film is such a defining piece of cinema. How do you plan to honor his vision while also making it your own?
NJ: Cronenberg’s The Fly is a masterpiece that elegantly marries body horror with the theme of scientific hubris. My approach is rooted in that universe; however, I want to delve deeper into the emotional and psychological repercussions of transformation. It’s about crafting a narrative that feels fresh, unique, and relevant to today’s audience, while respecting the haunting beauty of the original story.
TNE: You’ve mentioned wanting to explore the psychological aspects of transformation. Can you share a bit more about the themes you’re planning to tackle?
NJ: Absolutely! The notion of transformation isn’t just about the physical; it’s about identity, sacrifice, and the consequences of ambition. I want to explore how these transformations reflect societal pressures, particularly in the realms of science and technology. We live in an age where our bodies are increasingly influenced by technology; I think that creates an interesting parallel to the story of The Fly.
TNE: That’s a great angle! Given the memory of Cronenberg’s groundbreaking special effects, what can viewers expect from your interpretation? Will you be utilizing practical effects, CGI, or a combination of both?
NJ: I’m a firm believer in the impact of practical effects, especially when it comes to body horror. There’s something about tangible, real effects that root the audience in the experience, making it all the more visceral. That said, I’m also interested in how CGI can enhance certain sequences, allowing for a blend that captures the grotesque nature of transformation while keeping it grounded.
TNE: It sounds like you have an exciting vision! Horror often elicits strong emotional responses. What do you hope audiences take away from your version of The Fly?
NJ: My goal is to leave audiences feeling unsettled, not just from scares but from reflection. I want them to question the ethics of scientific advancement and what it means to truly become something other than oneself. I hope this film serves as both an entertainment experience and a lens through which viewers can examine their relationship with technology and self-identity.
TNE: That’s a compelling call-to-action. As you gear up to reveal this new vision, what’s one thing you find yourself most excited about in the process?
NJ: I’m incredibly excited to push creative boundaries with my team and collaborating with actors who bring this complex narrative to life. There’s a certain magic that happens when you bring together the right cast and crew to create something truly unique. It’s those moments of discovery during the filmmaking process that are incredibly rewarding.
TNE: We can’t wait to see your vision unfold! Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Nikyatu.
NJ: Thank you for having me! I can’t wait to share this journey with everyone.