In a significant move for the horror genre, Gary Dauberman, a prominent figure behind major franchises such as ‘It’ and ‘The Conjuring,’ has signed with WME for comprehensive representation. This transition is noteworthy for collectors and retailers within the toy and collectibles industry, as Dauberman’s projects often inspire merchandise tied to popular film properties.
Dauberman’s successful collaborations with visionaries like James Wan and Andy Muschietti have placed him at the forefront of horror cinema. Notably, he penned the adaptation of Stephen King’s classic novel ‘It,’ which shattered box office records as the largest horror opening of its time, alongside its sequel ‘It: Chapter Two’—together grossing over $1.1 billion globally. Such commercial achievements are crucial signals for toy manufacturers and retailers, indicating a robust market presence for collectibles based on Dauberman’s cinematic themes.
Expanding his influence within the ‘Conjuring’ universe, Dauberman has also been instrumental in the creation of several spinoffs, including ‘Annabelle’ and ‘The Nun,’ the latter of which holds the distinction of being the highest-grossing installment in the franchise. His directorial debut with ‘Annabelle Comes Home’ further showcases his multifaceted capabilities, enhancing his profile in the industry—a profile that now carries the backing of WME.
Dauberman’s production company, Coin Operated, maintains a first-look deal with Sony and is actively involved in upcoming projects, which could expand collectible offerings. Upcoming adaptations in development include a modern reboot of ‘Urban Legend’ and a live-action ‘Gargoyles’ series for Disney+, both of which provide fertile ground for new merchandise opportunities. Additionally, Dauberman is working on ‘The Revenge of La Llorona’ and an untitled horror film directed by André Øvredal, which adds to his diverse portfolio and potential influence on related collectible markets.
As the horror genre continues to thrive, Dauberman’s new partnership with WME may pave the way for innovative collectibles that resonate with audiences. Collectors and retailers should keep a close eye on forthcoming projects and materials that arise from his significant works, as they often lead to high-demand memorabilia.
Based on reporting by Hollywood Reporter. Read the full story at https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/gary-dauberman-wme-it-conjuring-spinoffs-writer-1236438688/.