In an unexpected yet intriguing artistic convergence, acclaimed director M. Night Shyamalan and bestselling author Nicholas Sparks have joined forces to create “Remain,” a supernatural romantic thriller that spans both literature and film. The novel, penned by Sparks, is set for release on October 14, 2025, with its cinematic counterpart, directed by Shyamalan, slated to hit theaters in October 2026. This unique collaboration blends the signature emotional depth of Sparks’ romance narratives with Shyamalan’s penchant for supernatural suspense, marking a significant crossover event in the entertainment news.
A Unprecedented Creative Partnership
The genesis of “Remain” stems from a mutual admiration between the two storytellers. Sparks, renowned for tear-jerking love stories like “The Notebook,” and Shyamalan, the maestro behind suspenseful thrillers such as “The Sixth Sense,” found common ground in their creative visions. The idea for a joint project emerged in early 2023, initiated by someone on Sparks’ team. Despite their seemingly disparate genres, both creators recognized the potential for a compelling narrative that could explore themes of love, loss, and the supernatural in a fresh way. Sparks has described their collaboration as akin to “identical twins raised separately,” each bringing their unique voice to the same core story.
The Novel: ‘Remain’ by Nicholas Sparks
Nicholas Sparks’ novel, “Remain,” is set to captivate readers on October 14, 2025. The story introduces Tate Donovan, a New York architect seeking a fresh start on Cape Cod after undergoing treatment for acute depression, still grappling with the grief of his sister’s death. His carefully ordered world is upended when he meets Wren, a young woman whose presence challenges his perceptions and draws him into a world of dark secrets and supernatural mysteries. The novel delves into the power of transcendent emotion, questioning whether love can truly transcend the boundaries of life and death. Published by Random House, “Remain: A Supernatural Love Story” promises a classic Sparksian emotional journey infused with a decidedly eerie Shyamalan-esque twist.
The Film: ‘Remain’ Directed by M. Night Shyamalan
M. Night Shyamalan has written and directed the film adaptation, which is scheduled for a theatrical release by Warner Bros. Pictures on October 23, 2026. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Tate Donovan and Phoebe Dynevor as Wren, the movie also features Ashley Walters. Filming took place in Rhode Island, with production commencing in June 2025. Shyamalan’s production company, Blinding Edge Pictures, is behind the film. The plot follows a similar trajectory to the novel, focusing on Tate’s attempts to rebuild his life and his burgeoning, complex relationship with Wren, all while navigating supernatural elements and hidden truths. The collaboration marks a significant development for both artists, with Shyamalan continuing his streak of genre-bending narratives and Sparks venturing more overtly into supernatural territory. This project is one of several recent ventures for Shyamalan, who is also developing a TV series based on the Magic 8 Ball toy.
A Cross-Genre Phenomenon
The joint effort between Nicholas Sparks and M. Night Shyamalan on “Remain” is generating considerable buzz. This collaboration represents a fascinating experiment in storytelling, where two distinct artistic voices contribute to a single narrative universe, offering unique experiences through both a novel and a feature film. The announcement has been a trending topic among fans of both romance and suspense genres, with many eager to see how this blend of heartfelt emotion and chilling mystery will translate across mediums. The Los Angeles-based NPR correspondent Leila Fadel has interviewed both creators about their unique partnership. As the novel prepares for its fall release and the film continues its journey through production towards its 2026 debut, “Remain” stands as a testament to the exciting possibilities that arise when distinct creative forces unite, promising a notable addition to contemporary movies and news in the streaming and TV landscape.
This ambitious project is poised to capture audiences’ attention, offering a fresh perspective on love, loss, and the mysteries that lie beyond the veil of the ordinary. The convergence of Shyamalan’s signature suspense and Sparks’ profound emotional resonance is set to deliver a truly unforgettable narrative experience. For fans of either artist, “Remain” is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated releases in upcoming entertainment news.
