Fans of horror and twisted fairy tales are buzzing about the upcoming R-rated film "Pinocchio: Unstrung," set in the connected Poohniverse, which also includes Winnie the Pooh titles. The first-look sneak peek at an animatronic puppet has raised eyebrows, showcasing impressive practical effects by veteran Todd Masters. Known for his work on classics like "Child's Play," Masters promises a gruesome take on the beloved puppet's journey to becoming a boy. Additionally, horror legend Robert Englund, famously known as Freddy Krueger, joins the cast, intensifying anticipation for this unique twist on the classic tale. With a series of films planned alongside other adaptions of Disney classics, "Pinocchio: Unstrung" is scheduled for release next year, drawing both excitement and skepticism from audiences eager for its edgy narrative.

What is the Poohniverse and its connection to classic fairy tales?

The Poohniverse is a cinematic universe that reimagines classic children's stories as horror films. One of its most notable titles is "Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey," which along with its sequels, paved the way for other dark adaptations of beloved tales, including the upcoming "Pinocchio: Unstrung." This innovative approach leverages the characters entering the public domain, allowing creators like Rhys Frake-Waterfield to explore grisly reinterpretations of familiar stories.

The Poohniverse concept cleverly capitalizes on the nostalgia of childhood favorites while delivering them through a horror lens, attracting both curious fans and horror enthusiasts. Alongside "Pinocchio: Unstrung," titles like "Peter Pan's Neverland Nightmare" and "Bambi: The Reckoning" promise to further expand this unconventional universe, presenting a blend of horror and dark humor in their storytelling approach.