Jamie Lee Curtis: Crafting Opportunity from Unexpected Sequels
The Unforeseen Trilogy: Curtis's Initial 'Halloween' Commitment
Jamie Lee Curtis recently shared insights at a SXSW panel, revealing that her agreement to star in David Gordon Green's 2018 'Halloween' film was made under the impression it was a standalone sequel to the 1978 original. She recounted her surprise upon discovering that the project was, in fact, conceived as a trilogy, a detail she only learned much later during the production process.
Leveraging 'Halloween' for a Development Deal
Curtis candidly admitted that had she known from the outset about the multi-film commitment, she might have declined the offer. Recognizing Blumhouse's reputation for cost-effective productions, she saw an opportunity. After filming the initial movie, she approached Jason Blum, the head of Blumhouse, proposing a development deal. Given her contractual obligation for the subsequent 'Halloween' installments, Blum was in a position where he couldn't easily refuse her request.
Empowering Independent Filmmaking Through Comet Pictures
The development deal with Blumhouse proved instrumental for Curtis, allowing her to financially support Russell Goldman, a talented filmmaker with whom she was collaborating on the project "Mother Nature." Goldman now holds a key development role at Curtis's production company, Comet Pictures, and his directorial debut, "Sender," is set to premiere at SXSW, marking a significant milestone for Curtis's production venture.
From 'Vanity Deal' to Impactful Production
Curtis humorously referred to her arrangement with Jason Blum as a 'vanity deal,' a common industry term for a producer credit that might not initially entail extensive hands-on involvement. However, she quickly transformed it into a powerful platform. She cited an instance where she was inspired by an NPR story about a heroic school bus driver and teacher, leading her to initiate its production. This initiative culminated in the Apple TV film "The Lost Bus," which earned an Oscar nomination for Best Visual Effects, underscoring her commitment to meaningful storytelling.
A Scream Queen's Complex Relationship with Horror
Despite her iconic status as a 'Scream Queen,' Curtis confessed that she isn't inherently a fan of the horror genre itself. She expressed deep admiration for the independent spirit prevalent within horror filmmaking and its increasing diversity, particularly in showcasing varied identities that challenge conventional norms. While acknowledging her career's foundation in horror, she maintained that her appreciation stems more from the craft and its evolving landscape than a personal affinity for scares.
Beyond the Screen: The 'Scarpetta' Ambition and Sitcom Dreams
Curtis also discussed her efforts to bring Patricia Cornwell's "Scarpetta" book series to the screen, a project she had approached Blum about. While initially not intending to star, an encounter with Nicole Kidman, who expressed admiration for Curtis's work, ultimately led her to consider a role. Despite her aspirations, she humorously concluded by expressing her ultimate desire to star in a sitcom, hinting at her varied interests and future career ambitions.
