Sam Raimi Returns to Horror Roots with New 'Magic' Remake
Lionsgate has officially tapped legendary filmmaker Sam Raimi to direct a remake of the 1978 puppet horror classic Magic. In a significant shift for the project, Raimi has signed on to direct the film, moving beyond his previous role attached only as a producer. He is bringing along a key creative ally from his recent hit: writers Mark Swift and Damian Shannon, the duo behind the popular horror-comedy Send Help.
This announcement marks a major milestone for the project, reanimating a twisted cult classic for a modern audience. The reunion of Raimi with Swift and Shannon signals a confident creative direction for the studio, leveraging the success of their recent collaborative work.
A "Dream Director" for a Cult Classic
The enthusiasm from Lionsgate’s leadership highlights the strategic importance of bringing Raimi in from the producer’s chair to the director’s seat. Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, emphasized the unique fit between the filmmaker and the source material.
"Sam is the dream director for this project—in fact, his coming aboard represents one of the truly great matches of director and material," Fogelson stated. "The script is fantastic, and we could not be more excited to see Sam’s direction and creative vision take it to another level. We are absolutely thrilled he has chosen to direct the film."
The original Magic, directed by Richard Attenborough and written by William Goldman, starred Anthony Hopkins in a dual role as ventriloquist Corky and his lively puppet, Fats. The 20th Century Fox release was marketed as a "terrifying love story," exploring the dark dynamic where a doll becomes eager to flip the script and gain control of its master. Raimi’s involvement suggests a fresh, likely visceral interpretation of this psychological horror.
The Production Team and Future Plans
The remake boasts a robust producing lineup that bridges Raimi’s previous projects with new talent. Roy Lee, known for his work on Weapons and It, is on board as a producer, alongside Chris Hammond and Tim Sullivan. Zainab Azizi, who produced Send Help and serves as a producer at Raimi Productions, will also return to the team.
Executive producers attached to the project include Andrew Childs, Nathan Kahane, and Paul Fishkin from Vertigo. Within Lionsgate, Meredith Wieck and Pavan Kalidindi will oversee the movie’s development.
Writers Swift and Shannon confirmed the news on social media, expressing their excitement about returning to their creative well.
"That's right... we are running the Send Help gang back for more," the pair wrote. "MAGIC is happening and Sam is directing. Rejoice horror fans, this is gonna be insane."
While the plot, cast, and release date remain under wraps, the collaboration hints at a film that blends Raimi’s signature style with the dark comedic sensibilities found in Send Help. For fans eager for more of this creative team's work, their recent film Send Help continues to receive praise, with critics noting its ability to put stars Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien through harrowing and entertaining scenarios.
As details emerge, horror fans will be watching closely to see how Raimi reinterprets the relationship between Corky and Fats for a new generation.
