Paramount Pictures is moving forward with Smile 3, bringing a new creative team into the chilling horror franchise. David Bruckner has been tapped to direct the third instalment, with Nick Antosca set to write the screenplay based on a story framework developed by franchise creator Parker Finn.
Finn, who wrote and directed both Smile (2022) and Smile 2 (2024), will remain involved as a producer alongside Temple Hill Entertainment, passing the directing reins to Bruckner as he turns his attention to other projects.
Bruckner brings plenty of horror experience to the franchise, having established himself through projects including The Ritual, The Night House and the 2022 reimagining of Hellraiser. His work across supernatural horror and psychological thrillers makes him an intriguing choice to continue the unsettling world of Smile.
Antosca also arrives with an impressive genre background. His television credits include Channel Zero and Brand New Cherry Flavor, while his work across horror and suspense has demonstrated a knack for disturbing stories and unsettling characters.
The original Smile became a major box-office success after its release in 2022, earning approximately $217 million worldwide. Starring Sosie Bacon, the film followed a psychiatrist whose life begins to unravel after witnessing a patient die in a deeply disturbing incident involving a sinister smile.
The franchise continued in 2024 with Smile 2, which shifted the story to pop star Skye Riley, played by Naomi Scott. As she prepared for a major tour, Skye became increasingly haunted by terrifying experiences that threatened both her career and her grip on reality. The sequel earned approximately $138 million worldwide, cementing the series as a significant modern horror property.
Although plot details for Smile 3 remain under wraps, the franchise’s anthology-style approach leaves plenty of room for a new protagonist and another disturbing encounter with the mysterious entity. Both previous films have explored different characters while maintaining the sinister smile and psychological torment at the centre of the series.
Meanwhile, Finn is preparing to direct a new version of the 1981 cult horror film Possession, starring Callum Turner and Margaret Qualley. Paramount is expected to release the remake in June 2027, giving Finn an opportunity to explore a different corner of supernatural horror.
With Bruckner behind the camera, Antosca handling the screenplay and Finn continuing to shape the story as a producer, Smile 3 is entering a new chapter. Casting, a release date and further story details have yet to be announced, but the next instalment is already shaping up to be one to watch for horror fans.
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