Get ready to be spooked! Kumail Nanjiani, the beloved comedian and actor, is stepping behind the camera for his directorial debut—and it’s a horror film! Yes, you heard that right. The man who’s made us laugh in hits like Eternals and The Big Sick is now diving into the world of chills and thrills with his upcoming project, Howl. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Nanjiani isn’t just dipping his toes into directing; he’s fully embracing the genre he and his wife, Emily V. Gordon, adore. In a recent chat on the Comedy Means Business podcast, Nanjiani shared how reading the script for Howl was a game-changer. ‘I don’t know if I know how to direct, but I think I know how to direct this movie,’ he admitted. It’s that spark of clarity that every creator dreams of—and now, he’s bringing it to life.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Nanjiani is joining a growing trend of comedians-turned-horror-filmmakers, following in the footsteps of Jordan Peele, Josh Ruben, and Zach Cregger. Is this a recipe for success, or just a passing fad? Nanjiani seems to think the former, crediting their success for paving the way. ‘Their track record has helped me a little bit in making this pivot,’ he noted. But let’s be real—horror is a tough genre to master. Can a comedian truly capture the essence of fear? Or will Howl lean into dark humor? Only time will tell.
What’s clear is Nanjiani’s passion for the project. ‘I see this tone in my head. I know exactly how this should be,’ he said. That kind of vision is rare, and it’s what makes Howl one to watch. Produced by Winter Coat Films, the company Nanjiani co-founded with Gordon and Dani Melia, the film is set to enter production next year. Plot details? Still under wraps, of course. But with Nanjiani at the helm, expect something unique, bold, and maybe even a little unsettling.
And this is the part most people miss: Nanjiani’s transition isn’t just about directing; it’s about storytelling. Whether it’s comedy, sci-fi, or horror, he’s always been drawn to narratives that resonate. Howl is his chance to prove he can do it all. So, will he succeed? Will Howl be the next big horror hit, or a cautionary tale for comedians eyeing the director’s chair? One thing’s for sure: we’ll be watching—with the lights on.
Before Howl hits screens, catch Nanjiani in Fallout Season 2, premiering tomorrow on Prime Video. But in the meantime, let’s debate: Can a comedian truly master horror? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears!
