H.P. Lovecraft's Most Iconic Horror Story Being Adapted Into Movie By James Wan

The Story of The Call of Cthulhu

James Wan is officially making The Call of Cthulhu. The movie will be based on the iconic 1928 H.P. Lovecraft short story of the same name, which follows a man named Francis Thurston who investigates a cult that seems to be involved in worshipping the ancient cosmic monster Cthulhu. The story is the first appearance of the iconic entity, who would later be referenced frequently in Lovecraft's works, as well as works by other prominent authors including Robert Bloch and Stephen King.

An Aged Looking Depiction of Cthulhu

Deadline recently announced a batch of upcoming movies that are set to be adapted into video games, including The Garfield Movie and Memory Lost in Space. However, in announcing that James Wan's The Call of Cthulhu would be adapted into a game, the article effectively announced the movie itself. This summer, the director, who previously helmed The Conjuring and Insidious, stated that the title was his 'dream project' and one he'd been working on in the background for half a decade.

The Call of Cthulhu has a rich history of adaptations in various formats, from movies to games and even music. Lovecraft's work has been frequently adapted to the screen in movies ranging from the 1960s classics The Haunted Palace and Die, Monster, Die! to the 1980s effects extravaganzas Re-Animator and From Beyond to the more cerebral 21st century outings Color Out of Space and Suitable Flesh. As one of his most popular and well-known stories, it is only natural that 'Cthulhu' has been adapted several times since its publication nearly a century ago.

The Legacy of Adaptations

The story of The Call of Cthulhu has been adapted into various forms of media, including comic books, tabletop games, and music. It made its first onscreen appearance in an episode of the animated show The Real Ghostbusters titled 'Collect Call of Cthulhu,' which loosely adapted the story. This was followed by a 2005 silent movie, The Call of Cthulhu, which is the only straightforward cinematic adaptation of the story thus far, though elements of the narrative are included in 2014's Call Girl of Cthulhu and 2020's Underwater.

Underwater, a 2020 film starring Kristen Stewart, incorporated elements of The Call of Cthulhu's narrative, adding to the story's influence on contemporary cinema. The most widely known adaptation is likely the 2018 video game Call of Cthulhu, which updated the 1981 role-playing game based on the story. This highlights the enduring popularity and relevance of the tale, both in the gaming industry and in cinematic adaptations.

The Impact and Significance

The Call of Cthulhu's continued adaptations across various media platforms demonstrate its enduring impact and significance in the world of horror fiction. The story has captivated audiences for nearly a century, inspiring filmmakers, game developers, and musicians to explore its otherworldly themes and cosmic horror. James Wan's upcoming adaptation adds to the rich legacy of The Call of Cthulhu, promising to bring the iconic tale to a new generation of horror enthusiasts.

As the movie adaptation by James Wan unfolds, it is expected to reignite interest in Lovecraft's cosmic horror and further solidify the story's position as a timeless classic in the realm of horror literature. The anticipation surrounding the film reflects the enduring allure of Cthulhu and the enduring legacy of H.P. Lovecraft's masterful storytelling.