Kumail Nanjiani Set for Directorial Debut? Report Says Horror Comedy ‘Howl’ Is in the Works

Los Angeles: Actor and comedian Kumail Nanjiani, known for his performances in films such as Eternals, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire and Duck Butter, is reportedly preparing to step behind the camera for the first time.

According to a Deadline report, Nanjiani is set to make his directorial debut with a horror-comedy titled Howl. The project is currently in development and is expected to be backed by Weed Road Pictures, Winter Coat Films, and Kumail’s own banner. The report also states that Amazon MGM Studios’ Orion Pictures has secured the rights to the film.

A Horror Comedy with an Unusual Twist

As per the report, Howl follows the story of a famous but troubled actor who shocks viewers during a live television talk show by announcing that he will transform into a werewolf within the next hour.

The unusual premise blends horror with comedy, making it one of the more distinctive projects currently in development. Besides directing, Kumail Nanjiani is also reportedly expected to play a key role in the film.

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Based on a Black List Screenplay

The screenplay for Howl has been written by Madison Vanderberg and was featured on the prestigious 2024 Black List, an annual survey highlighting Hollywood’s most admired unproduced scripts.

The film is reportedly being produced by Akiva Goldsman, Greg Lessans, Rachel Wizenberg, Kumail Nanjiani, Emily V. Gordon, and Dani Melia.

Earlier this year, Vanderberg hinted that her screenplay had found a director after gaining recognition through the Black List.“The Black List put the script on more radars. We found a great director, and hopefully that will be announced soon,” she had said in an interview with Women in Entertainment.

Busy Slate of Upcoming Projects

Apart from Howl, Kumail Nanjiani and his wife, Emily V. Gordon, are reportedly developing an adaptation of the popular comic book series Sex Criminals, where they are expected to serve as co-creators and executive producers.

The actor has also reportedly co-written and produced a comedy film titled Compulsive Liar.

On the acting front, Nanjiani continues to maintain a busy schedule with appearances in projects including The White Lotus Season 4, Only Murders in the Building, Fallout Season 2, and Poker Face.

While an official announcement regarding Howl is still awaited, the reported project has already generated excitement among fans eager to see Kumail Nanjiani take on the role of director for the first time.