M. Night Shyamalan Joins Forces with Nicholas Sparks for Novel and Film

Even M Night Shyamalan, known for his haunting films like *The Sixth Sense* and *Signs*, seeks out lighter themes at times. “I just finished three really dark movies, *Old*, *Knock At The Cabin*, and *Trap*, where the characters are incredibly dark and complex. I wanted to explore something different,” he shared.

To that end, he has teamed up with Nicholas Sparks on a new supernatural romance novel titled *Remain*. For those unfamiliar, Sparks is the king of romantic dramas, celebrated for works like *The Notebook* and *A Walk To Remember*.

Co-authoring books has become quite the trend in the publishing industry. Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben recently released a collaboration, while James Patterson has penned works with figures like Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton. What sets this partnership apart is that Shyamalan wrote the screenplay, and Sparks adapted it into a novel. A film version of *Remain*, featuring Jake Gyllenhaal and Phoebe Dynevor, has already finished production and is set for release next year.

“I don’t think anyone has done what we just accomplished, creating different art forms from the same story at the same time,” Sparks explained. “I trusted him entirely to create a fantastic film, and he trusted me in return.”

Their collaboration stems from a chance encounter years ago when Shyamalan was approached to adapt Sparks’ beloved novel *The Notebook*. Although the opportunity went to Nick Cassavetes, Shyamalan felt a deep connection to Sparks’ work. “It has always represented something magical to me,” he said.

In a conversation with *The Associated Press*, Sparks and Shyamalan discussed their collaboration, the world of thrillers, and even chicken salad. Their responses have been slightly edited for clarity.

Unexpected Duo: Exploring the Connection Between Romance and the Supernatural

SPARKS: This isn’t a new concept. The biggest hit of 1990 was *Ghost*. Even Shakespeare included ghosts in his plays.

SHYAMALAN: Love itself can be viewed as a supernatural notion. It’s a mythology we all participate in—the idea of finding “the one” and the destiny that brings you together.

The Casting of Gyllenhaal: A Serendipitous Encounter

SHYAMALAN: I approached Gyllenhaal about the role this year. It was such an unusual moment. I had just finished the script and got a call from Jake out of the blue. He expressed his desire to be part of one of my films, which felt like a sign from the universe. After a brief catch-up over tea, I handed him the script, and he was intrigued. Two days later, he called to say he was in.

Adaptation: How Does the Book Compare to the Screenplay?

SPARKS: As with most adaptations, it’s different from the source material. When I first read the script, I noted that while it was excellent, it wouldn’t resemble my novel at all.

SHYAMALAN: This will be interesting for viewers. They can identify which elements differ between my film and Sparks’ novel, which will prompt discussions about character development and backstory.

Halloween Recommendations from Shyamalan

SHYAMALAN: I always recommend *The Exorcist*. Other films to watch include *The Innocents*, the 1963 classic *The Haunting*, and the Japanese film *Cure*.

Chicken Salad and Splenda: A Culinary Quirk

SPARKS: I haven’t made my famous chicken salad for Night. It gained attention after I offered some to a reporter from the New York Times, which prompted social media buzz over its ingredients. I maintain it’s delicious, and we even handed it out during my book tour last year.

SHYAMALAN: Just to clarify, he hasn’t made it for me yet, nor has he even mentioned it.