Renowned horror producer Jason Blum, CEO of Blumhouse, has outlined key strategic decisions and insights regarding his production empire, including a notable shift to a theatrical-only release for the upcoming sequel, Five Nights at Freddy's 2. These revelations came during a recent discussion, highlighting the evolving dynamics of film distribution and production. The highly anticipated sequel is slated for release on December 5, 2025, marking a departure from the first film's hybrid release model.
Blum confirmed that Five Nights at Freddy's 2 will be exclusively in theaters, a change from its predecessor which debuted simultaneously on Peacock and in cinemas. This decision underscores a renewed focus on the theatrical experience for major releases, particularly following the first film's significant box office success despite its day-and-date strategy. Blum has also teased that the sequel will be "a lot scarier" than the original, addressing fan feedback.
The discussion also touched upon the operational differences between Blumhouse and James Wan's Atomic Monster, following their recent merger. While the two horror powerhouses have officially joined forces, they maintain distinct creative autonomies and brand identities, sharing resources and Blumhouse's first-look deal with Universal Pictures. This structure allows both entities to leverage combined infrastructure while preserving their unique creative visions.
Blum further elaborated on his strategic approach to intellectual property (IP) versus original content, stating that Blumhouse aims for a roughly 50/50 split between the two. He described IP as a "Trojan horse," a means to secure funding and reach a broader audience, allowing the company to continue investing in original stories. This philosophy underpins Blumhouse's diverse portfolio, balancing established franchises with innovative new concepts.
The producer also shared a personal anecdote from his early career, revealing how a letter from comedian Steve Martin played a pivotal role in launching his and Noah Baumbach's careers. Martin's endorsement of Baumbach's script for Kicking and Screaming (1995) helped Blum secure financing for his first producing credit. This story illustrates the unexpected avenues that can lead to success in the film industry.