Pinocchio: Craved from Darkness is a forthcoming twisted horror film based very loosely on Carlo Collodi’s classic 1883 children’s story.
Directed by Finnish-born Joona Tena (Super Furball) from a screenplay by Paulie Siegel.
The Oceana Studios production stars Peter Stormare (The Ritual Killer; John Wick: Chapter 2; Clown; Fargo) as Geppetto alongside Vicki Berlin and Daniel Nuta.
Blurb:
“This dark turn on Carlo Collodi’s classic 1883 tale sees woodcarver Geppetto carve a puppet resembling his recently deceased son from a block of wood discarded at a crime scene and cursed by Agatha, the priestess of a dark cult.
As Pinocchio turns into a vengeful killer, a teen named Charlie and his mother Nancy arrive in the town looking for a fresh start. Meanwhile, a detective named Georgina starts investigating Agatha’s crimes. The characters intertwine with some tragic consequences.”
Director Joona Tena has commented: “We’re using the premise of the classic tale to make a dark modern horror film, but one with poignancy and empathy as our Pinocchio is carved from evil but nurtured with affection. It will be a gripping cinematic journey through fear while dealing with themes of bereavement and broken family ties.”
One of the film’s producers added: “We’re thrilled to tell a story that has entertained people around the world for well over a century. Ours is set in a modern world while subverting the audiences expectations given the character has personified good since its inception. The combination of CG and live action will be surreal and audiences are going to be riveted.”
Production:
Pinocchio: Craved from Darkness is currently in pre-production.
Notes:
The children’s tale was previously adapted as a horror film in 1996 with Pinocchio’s Revenge.
