Lee Cronin Discusses R-Rated 'The Mummy' Film and Title Suggestion from Jason Blum

The film was produced by Blumhouse and Atomic Monster, with involvement from producers Jason Blum and James Wan, alongside John Keville. It was completed in early March 2026 on the Warner Bros.

lot. m. on a Monday, coinciding with post-Oscars activities nearby. He recalled standing exhausted under a water tower with a congratulations sign. The film opened in cinemas less than five weeks later.

Development and Concept

The project originated from a conversation with James Wan, who suggested making a Mummy movie.

Cronin initially hesitated but became interested in creating a terrifying version. He developed the idea of mummification for non-royal purposes, focusing on an average person or loved one. Cronin aimed to differentiate his film from previous entries in the nearly century-old franchise.

It differs significantly from Universal's action-adventure series starring Brendan Fraser. A fourth installment of that series was announced during production, which the marketing team referenced in social media posts.

Plot and Production Details

The story follows an American family in Egypt whose daughter Katie is abducted.

Eight years later, after relocating to New Mexico, she is found alive but deformed inside a tomb. The narrative escalates with violent scenes, including a toenail cutting, a grandmother attacked by coyotes, and chaos at a wake involving dentures. Filmed in Ireland and Spain with a budget in the mid-$20 million range, the film stars Jack Reynor, Laia Costa, and May Calamawy.

Cronin stated he wanted to take bold risks with the project. He has been working extensively, rarely seeing his home in rural Ireland, named Overlook.

Title and Collaborations Jason Blum

suggested including Cronin's name in the title, placing him among a few directors with such naming.

Cronin said he was flattered but unsure about the idea. The film builds on Cronin's previous works, including 'The Hole in the Ground' and 'Evil Dead Rise,' which earned $147 million worldwide on a budget under $20 million. Cronin discussed potential sequels and upcoming projects from his new production company Wicked/Good.

An incident during a screening where James Wan left for the bathroom sparked online rumors. The film emphasizes gore and horror elements in its retelling of the Mummy tale.