Wolfhard and Billy Bryk are writing Sony’s updated version of the 1999 horror-comedy that also starred Seth Green and Jessica Alba.
Wolfhard and Billy Bryk are writing Sony’s updated version of the 1999 horror-comedy that also starred Seth Green and Jessica Alba.
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Devon Sawa is ready to pass the torch after starring in the teen horror-comedy movie Idle Hands.
The Hollywood Reporter confirmed Tuesday that Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk have been hired to write an updated version of the film for Sony Pictures. Jason Reitman is serving as a producer, alongside Team Todd’s Jennifer Todd and Suzanne Todd. A director has not yet been announced.
Sawa, who played the lead role in the 1999 original, took to social media to offer his blessing. “I mean if anyone’s gonna do it, better be them two fine lads,” he wrote. “Good luck fellas.”
Later, Sawa — who is also known for Final Destination and the series Chucky — posted that his 10-year-old son was excited that Stranger Things standout Wolfhard would be involved in the new project.
Sawa wrote that his son said, “Awesome!! Finn Wolfhard from the coolest show Stranger Things is making a new movie called Idle Hands!!” The actor claimed that when he explained that he was the one who starred in the original, his child replied, “Sure dad. Whatever you say — can I have a snack?”
Additionally, when a social media user commented that a new Idle Hands wasn’t needed, Sawa replied, “It’ll be fun. I’m excited.”
Sony released the first Idle Hands on April 30, 1999 — which happened to be 10 days after the shooting at Columbine High School — and it collected just over $4 million at the box office. But the film has since garnered a cult following.
Rodman Flender directed the original movie, and the cast includes Seth Green, Elden Henson, Jessica Alba and Vivica A. Fox. Idle Hands stars Sawa as teenage stoner Anton, whose right hand is dead set on undertaking a murderous rampage after becoming possessed.
Wolfhard and Bryk co-wrote and co-directed Neon’s forthcoming horror-comedy flick Hell of a Summer.
This news follows Sony rebooting the horror franchise that began with the 1997 teen slasher movie I Know What You Did Last Summer. The new entry is set to hit theaters July 15, 2025.