Wonderfilm Media Corporation has greenlit ‘Amityville 1974’ to be based on the real-life murder spree that serves as the foundation for Jay Anson’s 1977 novel ‘The Amityville Horror’ which was adapted into the incredibly successful 1979 film of the same name.  The film version– directed by Stuart Rosenberg, starring James Brolin and Margot Kidder– became a massive crossover hit and led to over 20 additional films, some direct-to-video, others made for television.  The original story has been remade in theatrical movies in 2005 and 2017.  The original movie was nominated for an Academy Award for its score.

The real village of Amityville, located in Long Island, NY, is reported to be the home of malicious supernatural forces.  In 1974, Ronald DeFeo Jr. shot and killed all six members of his family at their home, which was later bought by a family who only managed to live there for 28 days.  It was that period that adapted into Anson’s book and the subsequent film.

While the other adaptations have focused on the supernatural side of things, ‘Amityville 1974’ will actually depict the original murders.  The screenplay was written by Casey La Scala (‘The Remaining’), who will also direct.

La Scala said:

“This is a story that takes its jumping-off point from the true facts surrounding the Defeo tragedy, but also focuses on the human drama that took place inside a family as they were relentlessly stalked by a terrifying evil.”

Jeff Bowler, founding partner of Wonderfilm Media, added:

“We are beyond thrilled to introduce ‘Amityville 1974’.  Casey has a truly unique and terrifying vision for the fright franchise and audiences will experience horror like never before with this film.”

Production will begin this November.  Bowler will produce along with Shaun Redick (‘Get Out’) for Wonderfilm, and Todd Garner (Tag). Bret Saxon and Yvette Yates will Executive Produce.

Are you intrigued to revisit Amityville?


Source: Deadline