As we previously reported, a new Hellraiser film is being developed at Dimension. Until very recently, it was being produced under a working title, so as to keep a low profile. In a recent interview with Fangoria, director Gary Tunnicliffe offered a series of updates and clarifications on the sequel. He also provided them with the image pictured above.
Tunnicliffe seems to have been as displeased with Revelations (for which he penned the original script) as fans were. “I was devastated to not be able to direct Revelations and to see the script whittled down and shot in a way that I would not have done,” said Tunnicliffe. “I respect Victor [Garcia] and I know he was under great pressure (in all aspects) and unfortunately, I think he made some choices that didn’t work out for him… so overall it was tough to see something I created altered and served up in a way that I was not a fan of in the end, although I think people and the fans have been able to see some evidence of what ‘may have been’ had there been more time, money, etc. This time around, it was vital that I get into the directors chair and I have to thank Joel Soisson, Mike Leahy and the folks at Dimension Films for giving me this opportunity and trusting me with what is a fairly daring and intimidating script and vision this time around.”
Tunnicliffe offered the following on what fans can expect from the sequel: “To the fans, I would say this… I know you’ve been let down, and trust me, I have too, but simply give me a chance. I know we can never make a film as great as the first two Hellraiser [films], I wouldn’t even attempt to do so, but I think we have a fun script here an opportunity with an amazing cast and crew to give you all something that feels a little familiar, a little different, completely terrifying and is a worthy part of the Hellraiser Canon….. oh and of course if you want blood?…. well you’ve got it!”
Tunnicliffe also responded to Doug Bradley’s Facebook post about why he is not involved with the film.
“I was thrilled and excited to call Doug and let him know I was writing and directing Hellraiser: Judgment, I considered Pinhead his role and I was looking forward to working with him and bringing him back to the fans. Legally, we needed a simple non-disclosure agreement signed (very much common place now with production companies) but he immediately balked. I have no idea why, I’ve signed way more binding NDA’s than that myself, most actors and crew on productions of any size usually have to now.”
Tunnicliffe says that Bradley replied with the following statement:
‘I’m going to make myself liable for a million bucks I don’t have just to read a damn script?… I don’t think so’
Tunnicliffe continued by saying: “I was stunned, after all it was my ‘damn’ script and it let me know how he felt straight away. I wrote to him saying I was sorry he felt that way and the next day the search for a new Pinhead began. A few weeks later, we found him: A classically trained stage and film actor who brings a great physical presence and more than a hint of Peter Cushing and Ralph Fiennes. I can’t wait to get him bound in leather, gridded up and in front of the camera and on screens!”
Tunnicliffe also confirmed that Heather Langenkamp (A Nightmare on Elm Street) is attached to this new installment. He didn’t provide any info as to who she will play, other than to say that she won’t be making any reference to A Nightmare on Elm Street.
