Paramount Pictures is in talks with BAFTA nominee Callum Turner and Golden Globe nominee Margaret Qualley to headline the remake of the 1981 cult psychological horror film Possession. This development comes more than a year after the project’s initial announcement, which had Robert Pattinson attached as the lead actor.
Director and Production Details for the New Possession
The remake will be directed by Parker Finn, the filmmaker known for the successful horror franchise Smile. Although Robert Pattinson’s role as a leading actor was never officially confirmed, he remains involved as a producer. Specific information regarding the characters Turner and Qualley will portray has not been disclosed.
Background on the Original Possession Film and Plot
The original Possession, co-written and directed by the late Polish filmmaker Andrzej Żuławski, starred Sam Neill as Mark and Isabelle Adjani as Anna, a married couple whose lives spiral after Anna leaves Mark following an affair. Mark’s devastation deepens as Anna’s behavior becomes progressively disturbing, revealing hidden, dark secrets. The film debuted at the Cannes Film Festival, where Adjani earned the Best Actress award. It currently holds an 86% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
“After Anna reveals to her husband, Mark, that she is having an affair, she leaves him and their son. Mark is devastated and seeks out Heinrich, the man who cuckolded him, only to receive a beating. After a series of violent confrontations between Mark and Anna, Mark hires a private investigator to follow her. Anna descends into madness, and it’s soon clear that she is hiding a much bigger secret — one that is both inexplicable and shocking,”
reads the original movie’s synopsis.
Recent and Upcoming Projects of Turner and Qualley
Callum Turner recently appeared in the A24 romantic comedy Eternity alongside Elizabeth Olsen and Miles Teller. His upcoming projects include the romance film One Night Only, releasing in theaters on August 7, 2026, and the satirical thriller Rosebush Pruning with Elle Fanning. Margaret Qualley will next star with Glen Powell in the black comedy thriller How to Make a Killing and is also set for a role in Ridley Scott’s upcoming sci-fi movie The Dog Stars, featuring Jacob Elordi in the lead.
Significance of the Remake and What to Expect
This remake of Possession aims to bring fresh perspectives to a psychological horror classic, capitalizing on the talents of rising stars Turner and Qualley under the guidance of Parker Finn. With Robert Pattinson’s involvement in production, the project carries notable industry interest. Fans of the original and horror enthusiasts alike will be watching closely as further casting details and plot developments unfold.
