Dubai-based distribution and production outfit Oceana Studios will launch sales on horror feature “Pinocchio: Carved From Darkness” at the Cannes Film Market.
The film, which is also produced by Oceana, will be directed by Joona Tena (“Superfurball”). Written by Paulie Siegel (“Jeremiah”), this dark turn on Carlo Collodi’s classic 1883 tale sees woodcarver Geppetto carve a puppet resembling his recently deceased son from a of 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.
The cast will include Peter Stormare (“John Wick: Chapter 2”) as Geppetto, Vicki Berlin (“Triangle of Sadness”) as Nancy, the semi-alcoholic mother of teenager Charlie. Daniel Nuta (“Watcher”) will play Ronnie, a local gangster who becomes involved in Charlie’s high school circle.
Popular on PvNew
Tena said: “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.”
Danny Sawaf, CEO of Oceana Studios, 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.”
Principal photography will commence in early 2025 with the completed film ready by summer.
Oceana, whose credits include “Lamborghini: The Man Behind the Legend,” starring Gabriel Byrne and Mira Sorvino, “Monstrous,” starring Christina Ricci, and “Terrifier 2,” is also launching sales on “The Debt Inherited,” which marks the directorial debut of Sawaf, at Cannes.
