Dan Trachtenberg to Direct Animated Horror Comedy 'Freddy the 13th' Based on Graphic Novel by Yehudi Mercado

Dan Trachtenberg, known for directing the recent "Predator" series, is set to helm the animated horror comedy "Freddy the 13th," based on a graphic novel by Yehudi Mercado. The story follows Freddy VanWinkle, a Halloween and slasher film enthusiast who accidentally acquires the powers of the Boogeyman after a fateful incident on a family vacation. Trachtenberg, Mercado, and Ben Rosenblatt will collaborate on this PG-rated project.
Having established his career with darker films, Trachtenberg expressed excitement about working on a project suitable for a younger audience. This marks a shift from his previous works like "10 Cloverfield Lane" and episodes of "The Boys" and "Black Mirror." The "Freddy the 13th" project is part of Paramount Animation's new lineup, which includes unique projects like an animal-themed "Survivor" spin-off and Robert Rodriguez's "The Naughty List."
Paramount Animation, led by Jennifer Dodge, is expanding its portfolio with innovative animated films. Following the success of projects like "Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie," the studio is venturing into new territories with "Freddy the 13th" and other upcoming releases. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration between Trachtenberg, Mercado, and Rosenblatt.