The Hollywood Reporter has learned that Universal Pictures has tapped Golden Globe-nominee Chloe Zhao (Eternals; Nomadland) to develop a brand new movie based on the most iconic monster in their lineup: Dracula.
While plot details are being kept tightly secured somewhere in the Carpathian Mountains, the film is expected to be a considerably different take on the legendary vampire than we've come to expect, as it's being described as an original, futuristic, sci-fi Western with its central theme revolving around being on society's fringes - something Zhao has previously explored in her past films.
In a statement, Univeral Pictures president Peter Cramer said, "Chloé’s singular lens shines a light on stories of the overlooked and misunderstood. We are thrilled to be working with her as she reimagines one of the most iconic outsider characters ever created."
Zhao added, "I’ve always been fascinated by vampires and the concept of the Other they embody. I’m very excited to work with Donna, Peter and the team at Universal to reimagine such a beloved character."
Following the immense success of Leigh Whannell's The Invisible Man last year, Universal has been recruiting top-level talent for reimagined monster movies. In addition to Zhao, projects are also in various stages of development from Dexter Fletcher (Renfield), Paul Feig (Dark Army), James Wan (Frankenstein), Elizabeth Banks (The Invisible Woman), Chris Miller and Phil Lord (Untitled Monster Project).