Scott Chambers takes the helm as director of Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare, the newest chapter in the Twisted Childhood Universe (TCU). This chilling film, which follows reimagined renditions of Peter Pan (played by Martin Portlock) and Tinker Bell (portrayed by Kit Green), explores a dark narrative where children are abducted and brought to the mysterious Neverland.
This venture marks Chambers’s directorial debut within the TCU framework. An accomplished producer, he previously worked on both Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey and its sequel, Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2, also playing Christopher Robin. Chambers is expected to produce additional films within the franchise, including titles like Bambi: The Reckoning and Pinocchio: Unstrung.
In anticipation of the theatrical release of Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare this week, ScreenRant conducted an interview with Chambers to discuss the influence of prior TCU films on this release, the Easter eggs embedded throughout, Wendy Darling’s expanded role in the series, and production details regarding the upcoming crossover film, Poohniverse: Monsters Assembled.
Changes Influenced by Earlier TCU Films
“Every entry to this universe is going to feel different to the last…”
ScreenRant: With Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare being announced before the Winnie the Pooh adaptations, how did the story evolve with the two films already in circulation?
Scott Chambers: This project was always part of our initial lineup — I had been keen on it since the beginning. Each installment in our universe is distinct; it’s similar to the approach of The Conjuring franchise, where the overall tone remains consistent. However, audiences can expect surprises in our films—if one doesn’t resonate with you, the next might. For instance, if you find the humor in the Winnie the Pooh films not to your taste, you may prefer the more serious and unsettling atmosphere of Peter Pan. As the universe expands, we’re integrating playful nods to other films. A fun detail: in Peter Pan, the mother character also serves as Christopher Robin’s therapist from the Winnie the Pooh story; they share the same wardrobe, highlighting the interconnectedness of our stories.
When revisiting Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare, should viewers prepare to discover hidden Easter eggs that tie into the broader TCU?
Scott Chambers: Absolutely! After just completing filming on Pinocchio, which features cameos from characters in earlier films, I can confirm that there are many overlaps. Notably, the timelines of these films are synchronized, laying the groundwork for our expanding universe—it’s crucial for us to establish emotional connections with these characters in preparation for the grander narrative in Poohniverse: Monsters Assemble.
Wendy Darling’s Expanded Role in the TCU
“How can I test her limits in Poohniverse?”
Wendy Darling is being cast in a heroic light within this universe. How does your interpretation differ from previous versions?
Scott Chambers: This rendition of Wendy breaks the mold of perfection. While she retains her affluent background, her character will reflect realism and relatable flaws. Unlike portrayals that depict her as a flawless damsel, this Wendy faces real-life challenges and has a complex relationship with her parents. She’s more grounded—she smokes, navigates personal issues, and isn’t the archetypical innocent heroine. As she endures trauma—both in Peter Pan and as she transitions into Poohniverse—her character evolves, and there will be significant stakes, making audiences think twice about their attachment to her.
Upcoming Production for Poohniverse: Monsters Assembled
“I am going to take time with it, but I never work slow anyways…”
There’s been a lot of buzz around the upcoming Poohniverse: Monsters Assembled film, which aims to be the grand crossover event. Are we still targeting a Halloween 2025 release?
Scott Chambers: Yes, I plan to begin filming this summer. I aim to make the Halloween 2025 release date achievable, but only if we can ensure its quality. The audience’s expectations are high, and I’m dedicated to meeting them. Rushing the process could lead to disappointment, hence I prefer to work diligently but efficiently to deliver a timely result.
Is there a contingency plan if the film doesn’t make the Halloween deadline?
Scott Chambers: If we miss Halloween 2025, it’s likely we’d target early 2026 for release. We want to ensure it arrives promptly, building on the excitement we’ve created.
Are there long-term plans to expand the TCU beyond the Monsters Assembled project?
Scott Chambers: Definitely! Beyond this crossover, we’re gearing up for Phase 2, which includes confirmed projects like Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey 3 and a standalone Tigger’s Return. One project I’m particularly eager about is Alice the Mad, which reimagines Alice in a narrative framed around an escort agency called the White Rabbit, exploring her complexities. The storytelling influences range from classic horror to psychological thrillers, and I’m excited to push boundaries.
Overview of Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare
The latest installment in the TCU centers on Wendy Darling’s quest to rescue her brother Michael from the sinister clutches of Peter Pan, who seeks to transport him to Neverland. Along her perilous journey, she encounters a corrupted version of Tinker Bell, who is addicted to what she believes to be fairy dust.
Watch the trailer here
Watch the trailer here
Stay tuned for upcoming interviews about Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare featuring…
- Martin Portlock & Kit Green
- Peter DeSouza-Feighoney
Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare is set to hit theaters for a limited run from January 13 to January 15, 2025, presented by Iconic Events Releasing. Purchase your tickets now at Iconic Events.
Source: ScreenRant Plus
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