In 2017, a Twitter thread by illustrator and former BuzzFeed employee Adam Ellis captivated and terrified readers as he shared his experiences of a potential haunting in his home by a ghost child. The thread, filled with audio, video, photos, and microblogs posted over several months, presented a unique form of storytelling that left a lasting impression. Even six years later, the thread remains supremely creepy, which is why there has been an increasing desire to adapt it into a more easily digestible format like a film.
When the thread went viral, many people responded with comments like “Oh my god, that should be a movie.” At the time, such comments were met with laughter, perhaps because it seemed absurd to think that a Twitter thread could serve as the inspiration for a film. However, it is worth noting that by 2017, Twitter had already become a source for Hollywood adaptations with two movies based on the Twitter account “Shit My Dad Says.” Additionally, the film industry had witnessed the success of the viral Twitter thread adaptation, “Zola,” which proved that Twitter content could indeed be turned into high-quality, engaging content.
Now, the Twitter thread by Adam Ellis is set to be adapted into a feature film, directed by John McPhail, known for his work on the super zombie musical “Anna and the Apocalypse.” Despite the baggage that comes with adapting internet content into a film, there is a glimmer of potential in this project. McPhail’s previous work showcases his ability to tackle unconventional narratives, making him an interesting choice for this adaptation.
While the trailer for the film may feel a bit formulaic, there is hope that it can capture at least 80 percent of the creep factor that made Ellis’s thread so chilling. If successful, the film could provide a thrilling and enjoyable experience for viewers. However, the true measure of its success will only be determined once audiences have the opportunity to see it. The film is currently scheduled to premiere on October 13th, 2023, and for those brave enough, it will be an experience best enjoyed in theaters, away from any rocking chairs that may evoke memories of the haunting.
In conclusion, the adaptation of Adam Ellis’s haunting Twitter thread into a film signifies the evolving landscape of storytelling and content creation. Twitter threads, once considered a mere form of social media entertainment, are now recognized as a potential source of captivating narratives that can be adapted into successful films. The upcoming adaptation of Ellis’s thread holds promise, especially with the involvement of a director known for his ability to handle unconventional concepts. As fans eagerly await the premiere of the film, they hope to relive the bone-chilling experience that made Ellis’s thread a memorable and spine-tingling journey.