Curry Barker Announces Next Directorial Project: 'Nothing But Ghosts

He also confirmed that the film’s score will be composed by experimental musician Hildur Guðnadóttir

Filmmaker Curry Barker has confirmed his next directorial effort will be the psychological thriller ' Nothing But Ghosts', set to begin production later this year. The announcement follows the critical attention surrounding his previous work, ' Obsession', which explored themes of fixation and identity. Barker, known for his atmospheric storytelling, aims to delve deeper into the supernatural with this new project, which he describes as a meditation on memory and loss. Industry sources indicate the film will be shot on location in coastal New England, leveraging the region’s isolating landscapes to enhance its eerie tone.

Barker emphasized that the script, developed over eighteen months, blends slow-burn tension with emotional realism, marking a shift from the more visceral style of his earlier films. Exploring the Roots of ' Nothing But Ghosts' Barker revealed that the concept for ' Nothing But Ghosts' originated from personal experiences with grief, particularly the feeling of being haunted by unresolved moments. He cited classic gothic literature and 1970s European cinema as key influences, noting that he wanted to avoid jump scares in favor of sustained unease. The screenplay, written in collaboration with longtime partner Lena Voss, underwent multiple revisions to refine its ambiguous ending, which Barker insists leaves room for audience interpretation. Casting is currently underway, with Barker expressing interest in actors who can convey internal conflict without relying on dialogue.

He also confirmed that the film’s score will be composed by experimental musician Hildur Guðnadóttir, whose work he praised for its ability to evoke psychological depth. How Does This Film Reflect Barker’s Evolving Vision? Unlike ' Obsession', which centered on external manipulation and psychological control, ' Nothing But Ghosts' turns inward, focusing on how individuals construct their own specters. Barker explained that while his previous film examined the dangers of being consumed by another person, this new project questions whether we are often the architects of our own torment. He noted that the coastal setting was chosen not just for its visual starkness but for its symbolic resonance—places where land meets sea, much like memory meets reality. The director also addressed concerns about genre expectations, stating that while the film contains supernatural elements, its core is a human story about confronting the past.

Early reactions from trusted readers of the script have described it as „quietly devastating” and „haunting in the truest sense.” What Challenges Might Barker Face in Bringing This Vision to Life? Translating a tone-driven narrative to screen presents unique risks, particularly in maintaining pacing without traditional thriller mechanics. Barker acknowledged that securing financing for a slow-paced, atmospheric film in today’s market remains difficult, though he expressed confidence in the project’s appeal to niche audiences and festival circuits. He also highlighted the importance of sound design, noting that silence and subtle audio cues will play a crucial role in building tension. Weather-dependent shooting schedules in New England add another layer of complexity, but Barker views these constraints as potentially beneficial, forcing the crew to adapt organically to the environment.

Despite these hurdles, he remains committed to preserving the film’s introspective nature, resisting pressure to alter its rhythm for broader commercial appeal. Frequently Asked Questions Is ' Nothing But Ghosts' a direct sequel to ' Obsession'? No, it is a standalone project. While both films explore psychological themes, they differ in narrative focus and style, with ' Nothing But Ghosts' leaning into supernatural ambiguity rather than interpersonal manipulation.

When is the film expected to be released? Production is slated to begin in late 2026, with a potential festival premiere in mid-2027, though no official release date has been announced yet.

Will Curry Barker also write the screenplay for this film? Barker is co-writing the screenplay with Lena Voss, continuing their collaborative partnership that began on several of his earlier short films.