Pinocchio: Unstrung - Classic Puppet Tale Gets a Horror Makeover with Freddy Krueger Star

The beloved tale of Pinocchio is about to get a dark reimagining. From the twisted mind of Rhys Frake-Waterfield, the director who brought us the viral sensation 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey,' comes a spine-chilling take on Carlo Collodi's 1881 classic story.

Horror Icon Joins the Cast

In a thrilling announcement that has horror fans buzzing, Robert Englund, the legendary actor behind Freddy Krueger in 'A Nightmare on Elm Street,' has joined the cast. Englund will portray Jiminy Cricket, transforming the beloved conscience-giving cricket into what promises to be a more sinister character. The casting announcement, revealed by Variety, also confirms Richard Brake (known for 'Doom' and 'Hannibal Rising') will step into the role of Geppetto, the puppet maker.

A Growing Universe of Dark Fairy Tales

'Pinocchio: Unstrung' joins the expanding "Poohniverse," a dark universe reimagining beloved childhood characters. This horror-themed collection already includes:

'Bambi: The Reckoning'

'Peter Pan's Neverland Nightmare'

The upcoming third installment of 'Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey'

'Poohniverse: Monsters Assemble,' a project that aims to unite these twisted fairy tale characters

Production Details

The film brings together an impressive creative team:

Director: Rhys Frake-Waterfield

Production Company: Jagged Edge Productions

Special Effects: Todd Masters (known for 'Child's Play,' 'Underworld Awakening,' and 'Slither')

Additional Cast: Cameron Bell, Jessica Balmer, Jack Art Gray, and Peter De Souza-Feighoney

Director's Vision

Frake-Waterfield has expressed ambitious plans for the project, stating: "We're implementing practical effects throughout the film, from the puppet itself to the opening credits. With a significantly larger budget than 'Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2,' we're aiming to make this our best horror film yet."