'Weapons': New Line Announces Deal For 'Barbarian' Filmmaker Zach Cregger's Next Horror Feature

One of the best surprises of 2022 has to be “Barbarian.” Not only is it surprising because of the story, which completely catches people off guard with its smart writing and fun twists, but the film also shocks people when they find out that Zach Cregger is the writer-director. This is the guy who previously worked with the comedy troupe, The Whitest Kids U’ Know, and now he’s making smart, engaging horror films? What? Well, his horror debut, “Barbarian,” was so well-received last year that he started a recent bidding war for his follow-up film, “Weapons.”

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And according to a new report from THR, the bidding war for Zach Cregger’s “Weapons” has concluded, with New Line coming out on top. The report claims that Cregger will receive an eight-figure sum to write and direct the film. However, in addition to the money, he’s also getting some ridiculous creative control, including a guaranteed greenlight, final cut on the film, backend profit sharing, and a guaranteed theatrical release. Bravo, Mr. Cregger!

As far as what “Weapons” will be about, there isn’t anything to go on. And considering how much of a surprise the plot of “Barbarian” actually was for people watching the film, you kinda don’t want to know much at all. Cregger has quickly become another Jordan Peele-esque filmmaker, so the less we know about his films, it’s probably for the better. 

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“Zach proved with ‘Barbarian’ that he can create a visceral theatrical experience for audiences and that he commands every tool in the filmmaker toolbelt,” said New Line’s president and CCO, Richard Brener. “We couldn’t be happier that he, Roy [Lee] and Miri [Yoon], and J.D. [Lifshitz]and Rafi [Margules] chose New Line to be the home of his next film, and hope it is the first of many to come.”

Obviously, with the script just now finished, we’re still pretty far away from seeing “Weapons” hit theaters. However, with how hard New Line is pushing the film already and raving about Cregger, you have to assume the studio would love to get this one in front of cameras ASAP. So, maybe a 2024 release is in the cards?