Michiel Blanchart to Direct New ‘Final Destination’ Movie

New Line Cinema has chosen its director for the next Final Destination film. Belgian filmmaker Michiel Blanchart will helm the highly anticipated sequel. This news follows the massive global success of this year’s “Final Destination: Bloodlines”.

Blanchart is set to make his English-language feature debut with the project. The search for a director concluded this week with Blanchart emerging as the top candidate. According to The Hollywood Reporter, an official offer is expected to be made shortly.

Building on a Record-Breaking Franchise

The “Final Destination” franchise continues its impressive run. “Bloodlines” opened at number one globally earlier this year. It achieved the best opening weekend in the six-film series.

The film has grossed over $314.6 million worldwide to date. This makes it the highest-grossing entry in the franchise’s 25-year history. Its domestic earnings alone reached $138.1 million.

This financial success solidifies the franchise’s enduring appeal. The series has now earned over $1 billion worldwide. It ranks as New Line’s third-biggest horror franchise behind The Conjuring Universe and the It films.

A New Vision for the Iconic Horror Series

Michiel Blanchart brings a fresh perspective to the beloved series. Despite having only one feature credit, he is no newcomer. His short film “You’re Dead, Hélène” was shortlisted for an Oscar in 2023.

That project is now set for an English-language adaptation at Tri-Star. Sam Raimi is attached to produce. Blanchart’s feature debut, “Night Call”, was a critical success in Belgium.

The film swept the Magritte Awards, winning ten out of eleven nominations. Blanchart personally won best film, best first feature, best screenplay, and best director. His proven talent for genre storytelling makes him an exciting choice for the sequel.

Lori Evans Taylor returns to write the new script. She co-wrote “Bloodlines” with Gary Busick. Key producers Craig Perry and Sheila Hanahan Taylor are also back.

The Final Destination Bloodlines sequel represents a new chapter for the iconic horror franchise. With Michiel Blanchart’s visionary direction, the series is poised to deliver fresh scares to its global audience.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is directing the new Final Destination movie?

Belgian filmmaker Michiel Blanchart will direct the sequel. He is making his English-language debut with this project. Blanchart’s previous short film was Oscar-shortlisted in 2023.

Is this a direct sequel to Bloodlines?

Yes, this will continue the story from the record-breaking “Final Destination: Bloodlines”. The same writing and producing team are returning for this installment. Lori Evans Taylor is penning the new script.

How successful was the last Final Destination movie?

“Bloodlines” became the highest-grossing film in the franchise. It earned over $314 million worldwide. The film achieved the best opening weekend in the series’ history.

When will the new movie be released?

No official release date has been announced yet. Production timelines remain undisclosed. The project is moving forward with director confirmation.

Why did the previous directors not return?

Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein chose not to return for the sequel. The reasons for their departure have not been publicly disclosed. New Line Cinema began searching for a new director shortly after.