The news, initially reported by Deadline, indicates that Disney is embarking on a new cinematic rendition of 'Sleeping Beauty' with Trachtenberg at the helm. This project is described as an original story, designed to take the familiar narrative in a completely new direction. Importantly, it will not be connected to the 'Maleficent' films that starred Angelina Jolie, signaling a distinct creative path for this iteration.
The story for the upcoming film is being developed by Trachtenberg himself, alongside Rayna McClendon. The screenplay will be penned by Alex Anfanger and Dan Schimpf, suggesting a collaborative effort to craft this unique vision. Details regarding casting remain under wraps, as the project is still in its nascent stages.
Trachtenberg's involvement immediately sparks curiosity about the potential tone and style of this 'Sleeping Beauty.' Known for his ability to craft tense, character-driven survival narratives, as evidenced by his work on 'Prey,' he often places protagonists in challenging, high-stakes environments. 'Prey' notably shifted the perspective of the 'Predator' saga, focusing on a Comanche warrior's struggle for survival against the alien hunter. This background suggests that his 'Sleeping Beauty' could veer away from traditional romantic fantasy, perhaps incorporating elements of adventure, suspense, or even a darker, more grounded approach to the magical world of the fairy tale.
Given Trachtenberg's track record, audiences can anticipate a version of Princess Aurora's story that is far from conventional. His previous films demonstrate a knack for reinventing established properties while retaining their core appeal, making him an intriguing choice for a Disney classic. Before diving into 'Sleeping Beauty,' Trachtenberg is also attached to direct 'Freddy the 13th,' an animated horror film for Paramount, further showcasing his diverse interests across genres. This upcoming Disney project marks a significant step for a director who consistently seeks to innovate within familiar frameworks.