The mood and visuals of the upcoming film adaptation of Five Nights at Freddy's were heavily inspired by the original bestselling game. However, director Emma Tammi also incorporated elements from Todd Phillips' Oscar-winning Joker and Steven Spielberg's filmography to shape the final product.
"We constantly looked to Steven Spielberg for inspiration, aiming to capture that sense of wonder from childhood while also exploring a darker, Joker-like world," Tammi explained, highlighting the desire to emulate the chaotic atmosphere portrayed in the film. "Lyn Moncrief and I drew on various cinematography techniques for our references. Additionally, the haunted house aspect played a significant role in influencing our approach. We also incorporated a Terrence Malick-inspired camera style for certain scenes, particularly those that delve into the protagonist's backstory and memories, in order to evoke a dreamlike quality," the director elaborated. "The forest campground settings provided an ideal backdrop for these specific sequences. Overall, we drew from a range of diverse references to create something truly unique."Released on August 8, 2014, Five Night at Freddy's, created by Scott Cawthon, quickly gained global acclaim. The upcoming film adaptation revolves around Mike (Josh Hutcherson), a security guard at Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria, who encounters unexpected horrors during his nightshift. Elizabeth Lail (known for Netflix's You) and Matthew Lillard, a renowned figure in the horror movie genre, also feature in the movie. Set to hit theaters on October 27, Five Night at Freddy's promises to captivate audiences.