The directors behind the recent Scream revival are bringing their horror expertise to another beloved franchise.
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, collectively known as Radio Silence, are tackling The Mummy franchise—and they’re approaching it with the same care that made their Scream films successful.
The duo successfully helmed the fifth and sixth entries in the Scream saga, maintaining sharp scares, humor, and satirical elements that defined the series.
Now they’re setting their sights on reviving the 1999 Universal Monsters favorite that perfectly blended Indiana Jones-style adventure with genuine frights.
Stepping Into Another Beloved Franchise
Confirmation came last year that Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett are developing a fourth film in the series that began with Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz’s 1999 hit. The original trilogy continued with 2001’s The Mummy Returns and concluded with 2008’s The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor—though Weisz didn’t return for that final installment.
Both Fraser and Weisz are rumored to be returning as Rick and Evie, respectively, which would reunite the original duo that captured audiences’ hearts over two decades ago.
For Gillett, taking on established franchises requires meeting a specific standard. Speaking with Empire, he explained their careful approach to selecting projects.
Having stepped into Scream, our radar for jumping into another franchise is that it has to feel special.
A Script That Delivers Everything Fans Want
David Coggeshall’s screenplay apparently checks all the boxes for what makes The Mummy franchise work.
It is very beautiful and sweeping and scary and fun.
That combination of elements perfectly captures what made the original 1999 film such a hit—balancing spectacle with genuine scares while never taking itself too seriously.
The directors’ track record suggests they understand how to honor franchise legacy while bringing fresh perspectives. Their Scream films earned critical acclaim precisely because they respected what came before while adding contemporary relevance.
Expanding The Ready Or Not Universe
Beyond The Mummy, Radio Silence continues developing their own properties. Ready Or Not 2: Here I Come arrives in UK cinemas March 20, continuing the story that began with their 2019 horror-comedy hit.
But the sequel might not be the end. Bettinelli-Olpin hints that the Ready Or Not world contains more stories worth exploring.
It does feel like there are a bunch of little corners that other stories could exist in. We don’t have any specific plan to explore anything, but there’s definitely room to tell another story in this world.
Why Radio Silence’s Approach Works
The directing duo has proven adept at understanding what makes genre films connect with audiences. Their success stems from several key factors:
- Respecting source material: They honor what fans loved about original films while updating for modern audiences
- Balancing tone: Mixing genuine scares with humor without undermining either element
- Understanding character: Focusing on compelling protagonists rather than just spectacle
- Maintaining quality: Being selective about projects rather than jumping into every franchise opportunity
Their selective approach to franchise work demonstrates confidence in their creative vision. Not every legacy property deserves revival—but when the script and concept align with their sensibilities, Radio Silence delivers.
What To Expect From The New Mummy Film
Based on Gillett’s description, the upcoming Mummy installment will return to the formula that made the original trilogy beloved. Expect sweeping adventure sequences reminiscent of classic action films, balanced with horror elements that create genuine tension.
The “beautiful” aspect Gillett mentions suggests spectacular visuals and exotic locations—hallmarks of the Fraser-led films. Modern filmmaking technology could elevate action sequences beyond what was possible in the late ’90s and early 2000s.
Most importantly, the emphasis on “fun” indicates Radio Silence understands The Mummy franchise’s tone. These films work best when they’re thrilling adventures rather than grim horror exercises.
A Promising Future For Feel-Good Frights
Radio Silence has carved out a unique niche in modern horror—creating films that scare audiences while entertaining them. Their ability to blend tension with levity makes their projects accessible without sacrificing edge.
Whether continuing their own Ready Or Not universe or stepping into established franchises like Scream and The Mummy, the duo consistently demonstrates understanding of what makes genre films resonate.
For fans of the original Mummy trilogy, having directors who respect franchise history while bringing fresh creative energy offers hope for a worthy continuation. The potential return of Fraser and Weisz only sweetens the prospect.
Whatever Radio Silence tackles next, audiences can expect the same blend of scares, humor, and heart that has defined their work—proving that “feel-good frights” aren’t contradictory, but rather the perfect formula for memorable cinema.