A fascinating filmmaker-studio collaboration may be on the horizon, as Robert Eggers—the visionary behind The Witch and Nosferatu—is being considered to direct a new adaptation of A Christmas Carol at Warner Bros. Even more intriguing? His top choice to play Ebenezer Scrooge is none other than Willem Dafoe, his frequent collaborator.

While no official attachments have been made—meaning neither Eggers nor Dafoe are formally signed to the project—the buzz is real. According to Variety, Eggers is not only under consideration but is actively interested in casting Dafoe in the iconic lead role. The film is currently in early development, so any potential release is still some time away.

Before diving into the Dickensian classic, however, Eggers is fully immersed in Werwulf, a period horror film set for release in Christmas 2026 under Focus Features. Written in collaboration with Sjón—the creative force behind The Northman and the upcoming Labyrinth sequel—Werwulf has been described by Eggers as “the darkest thing” he’s ever written. Given that pedigree, the idea of him reimagining A Christmas Carol through his distinct, atmospheric lens is both thrilling and inevitable.

Will he lean into the story’s inherent darkness, amplifying its ghostly visions and moral dread? Or will he introduce a rare note of redemption with his signature intensity? Either way, the prospect of Eggers exploring this timeless tale—possibly with Dafoe delivering a haunting, layered Scrooge—adds a compelling layer to his growing legacy.

With Werwulf paving the way for late 2026, a 2027 release for A Christmas Carol isn’t out of the question. While nothing is confirmed yet, the pieces are quietly falling into place. Stay tuned.