
In a move that’s sure to intrigue both horror fans and moviegoers alike, Blumhouse Productions has announced a new version of the classic horror-adventure film ‘The Mummy’, set to release on April 17, 2026. The project will be helmed by Lee Cronin, the visionary director behind the 2023 hit ‘Evil Dead Rise’. With Cronin’s expertise in delivering spine-chilling narratives, this reimagining of ‘The Mummy’ promises to offer a fresh twist on a cinematic classic, diving deep into uncharted territory of ancient horror and mystery.
A Bold New Direction
Lee Cronin has already proven his talent for blending terror with suspense in ‘Evil Dead Rise’, which captivated audiences with its intense and visceral take on the legendary horror franchise. Now, Cronin is setting his sights on ‘The Mummy’, a film franchise that has gone through numerous iterations since its inception.
In an exclusive interview with ‘The Hollywood Reporter’, Cronin hinted at the bold new direction his version of ‘The Mummy’ will take. “This will be unlike any ‘Mummy’ movie you’ve seen before,” Cronin said. “I’m going to dig deep, exploring ancient terrors that will make audiences shudder.” This approach suggests that Cronin’s ‘Mummy’ won’t be a traditional monster movie but rather an exploration of dark, ancient forces that tap into primal fears and forgotten myths.
Cronin’s statement also suggests that this version of ‘The Mummy’ will deviate from the usual action-packed, adventure-filled formula often seen in Hollywood adaptations of the tale. Instead, the film is expected to lean heavily into psychological horror, with an emphasis on the eerie and supernatural. This departure from the swashbuckling adventures of past ‘Mummy’ films signals that the filmmakers aim to give the story a darker, more unsettling tone that could be a perfect fit for Blumhouse’s reputation for producing high-quality horror films.
‘The Legacy of ‘The Mummy’
The legacy of ‘The Mummy’ in Hollywood is long and storied. The original ‘Mummy’ movie, released in 1932, starred Boris Karloff as Imhotep, an ancient priest who is resurrected after being accidentally awakened from his tomb. The film became a cornerstone of Universal’s monster movie lineup, which included other iconic figures such as Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster, and the Wolfman.
The ‘Mummy’ franchise saw a major revival in 1999 with the release of the Brendan Fraser-led action-adventure film. The film’s success spawned two sequels and a spinoff, ‘The Scorpion King’, which starred Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The 1999 ‘Mummy’ remains beloved by fans, thanks to its thrilling combination of action, humor, and supernatural horror.
However, in 2017, Universal Pictures tried to reboot the franchise once again with ‘The Mummy’, starring Tom Cruise. This version was intended to be the first film in Universal’s ambitious ‘Dark Universe’ series, which would have brought together a modern reimagining of classic monster movies. Unfortunately, the 2017 film was a box-office disappointment, and ‘The Dark Universe’ was quickly shelved.
Now, Blumhouse Productions, a studio known for its work on films such as ‘Get Out’, ‘The Purge’, and ‘Sinister’, has taken the reins in an effort to revitalize the franchise. Blumhouse is well-known for its ability to take familiar horror concepts and breathe new life into them, making the studio a fitting choice for this new ‘Mummy’ iteration.
What Can We Expect from Cronin’s ‘The Mummy’?
While details about the new film are scarce, Cronin’s comments suggest that this version of ‘The Mummy’ will be a departure from previous incarnations. The focus will likely be on the exploration of ancient cultures and forgotten histories, uncovering dark secrets that have been buried for millennia. Cronin has a knack for creating tension through psychological horror, so fans can expect a ‘Mummy’ movie that is less about grand set pieces and more about a creeping sense of dread.
It’s likely that the film will explore the ancient curse surrounding the Mummy, diving deep into the supernatural lore of Egyptian mythology. This version may take a more existential approach, pondering what lies beyond the grave and the consequences of disturbing ancient tombs. The Mummy in Cronin’s version might not be the traditional monster we’ve seen in previous films, but rather a force that embodies the darker aspects of the human psyche—something that evokes terror not only through physical presence but through the emotional and psychological toll it exacts on its victims.
Blumhouse is known for crafting horror films that focus on atmosphere and character development, and Cronin’s ‘Mummy’ will likely follow that same formula. The film may prioritize mood and tension over the bombastic action sequences of previous ‘Mummy’ movies, offering a more intimate, character-driven exploration of fear.
A Fresh Twist on a Classic Story
Cronin’s ‘Mummy’ is poised to carve a new path for the franchise, breaking away from the adventure and action tropes that have dominated the series for decades. This fresh twist will breathe new life into the ‘Mummy’ mythos, offering something truly original for both horror aficionados and fans of the classic monster genre. By blending the rich history of ancient horror with modern sensibilities and psychological terror, Cronin’s ‘Mummy’ could become a landmark film in the genre, much like other Blumhouse productions that have redefined the horror landscape.
For those who have followed the ‘Mummy’ series for years, this new direction may come as a welcome change. It’s clear that Blumhouse and Lee Cronin are not interested in simply rehashing what’s been done before. Instead, they are determined to revive the Mummy mythos in a way that is both terrifying and thought-provoking—showcasing a fresh perspective on an ancient tale that has stood the test of time.
With Blumhouse Productions at the helm and Lee Cronin’s visionary direction, the new ‘Mummy’ promises to be a horror experience unlike anything audiences have seen before. By delving into the ancient and terrifying unknown, Cronin is set to bring a fresh twist to a beloved classic, crafting a film that blends deep psychological horror with supernatural elements. Fans of the genre can’t help but be excited about what’s to come when the new ‘Mummy’ rises from the grave in 2026.