Daniel Mercer
Do you recall when Luca Guadagnino attempted to remake Dario Argento’s iconic film Suspiria? The result contained some bold moments—Tilda Swinton’s multiple performances combined with intense body horror cannot be overlooked—but it failed to truly justify its existence. Why revisit Suspiria when the original, a definitive masterpiece, is readily available for viewing?
This sentiment re-emerges as we discuss the upcoming remake of Possession, a topic we’ve already expressed frustration about on this platform. The recent announcement of a release date—June 11, 2027, as reported by Variety—makes us feel like we want to retreat into an empty subway station and experience a mental breakdown.
Even with our appreciation for the talent involved, akin to our admiration for Guadagnino and Swinton, there are concerns. Parker Finn, known for his work on Smile and its sequel Smile 2, is directing this new project, with Margaret Qualley, whose performance in The Substance resonates strongly, starring alongside Callum Turner, who is set to appear in Apple TV’s upcoming series Neuromancer.
Possession, perhaps even more than Suspiria, is profoundly tied to its unique setting and context, making it seem nearly impossible to recreate. The original 1981 film, directed and co-written by Andrzej Zulawski, drew inspiration from his own tumultuous divorce to delve into the disintegrating relationship of Mark (played by Sam Neill) and Anna (portrayed by Isabelle Adjani). Mark, a secret agent, becomes consumed by jealousy over Anna’s infidelity, which involves partners both human and… otherwise.
The unsettling atmosphere of paranoia and dread is amplified by the backdrop of the Cold War; the couple resides in a bleak West Berlin apartment with a view of the Berlin Wall, which is nearly as divisive as the emotional chasm that grows between them. The performances are outstanding. Adjani is justly acclaimed for her raw and terrifying descent into madness, but Neill’s character is central as he confronts the downward spiral he has inadvertently orchestrated.
While details about the Possession remake remain scarce, the original 1980s West Berlin ambiance that envelops Mark and Anna’s descent into insanity no longer exists. Nonetheless, the cast features some compelling supporting actors, including Diego Calva, Madeline Brewer, Emory Cohen, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, and Paul Dano.
We will see what Parker Finn brings to the project when Possession (sigh) arrives in theaters on June 11, 2027. In the meantime, you can easily revisit the original Possession for a truly unsettling experience.
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Brandon Fletcher
