David Sandberg Channels Horror Once More In Netflix's 'The Unsound'

As the house of the mouse gears up for its own streaming platform debut, the war between Netflix and Disney+ only further intensifies. To help fan said flames, Netflix has landed “The Unsound” comic book adaptation with David F. Sandberg on board to direct, revealed via Deadline.

Skylar James will be writing the film's script, with producers Lotta Listen and Sandberg representing the recently established production company Mångata, as well as Ross Richie and Stephen Christy from BOOM! Studios, distributor of “The Unsound” graphic novel.

Given that they, under that of Marvel and DC, own one of the largest groupings of comic book IP, BOOM! Studios are certainly in need of some credit. Languishing in the remains of the Fox/Disney deal, the comic book publisher will finally have its day to shine by way of Netflix.

The graphic novel’s narrative follows a psychiatrist under supervised care in the same asylum where her mother used to work. As the story progresses, Ashli delves deeper into the sick and haunting realities that plague not merely the hospital nor even her mother, but herself.

Originally penned by Cullen Bunn and Jack T. Coyle, “The Unsound” is a gothic horror unlike any before it, and though it may sound rather similar to “Shutter Island,” it’s extremely far removed. “The Unsound” portrays mental illness through tones of horror utilizing extreme care and ingenuity, which will most assuredly be emulated in the writing of James' and the directing of Sandberg’s.

Having the credentials of not only genre-specific horror, such as 2017’s “Annabelle: Creation” and 2016’s “Lights Out,” but of comic book adaptions also, as in 2019’s “Shazam!,” Sandberg appears to be a perfect fit for the role of director. With only a spec script under his belt, titled “29 Mole Street,” James’ screenwriting resume may not speak volumes, but with the right direction both creators will likely make wonders of Netflix’s “The Unsound.”