M. Night Shyamalan’s Notebook? Almost a Reality!

Thescreescore – M. Night Shyamalan, celebrated for his suspenseful thrillers, almost took a detour into romance. Nicholas Sparks revealed that the Sixth Sense director was once considered to pen the script for The Notebook.

Sparks disclosed in a recent Variety interview that Shyamalan was in consideration to adapt The Notebook, following Jan Sardi’s initial attempt. However, Shyamalan’s rising success with The Sixth Sense led the producers to ultimately select Jeremy Leven.

Both films achieved significant success. The Sixth Sense grossed $672.8 million worldwide and earned six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay for Shyamalan. The Notebook garnered $118.56 million globally and propelled Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams to stardom.

This near collaboration resurfaced as Sparks and Shyamalan team up for the first time. Sparks’ latest novel, Remains, co-authored by Shyamalan, is set to release on October 14. Shyamalan has already filmed the adaptation, starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Phoebe Dynevor, slated for release in October 2026.

Remains follows Tate Donovan, an architect seeking a new beginning after being discharged from a psychiatric facility following his sister’s death. His sister claimed to see spirits tethered to the living world, a notion Tate initially dismisses. However, his encounter with Wren challenges his perceptions.

Sparks mentioned that Remains originated from an idea pitched by Shyamalan. He also hinted that the film adaptation might diverge from the book’s ending.

Shyamalan’s recent film, Trap (2024), grossed $83.67 million. Sparks, with nine of his books adapted into films since 2002, hasn’t had a movie adaptation since 2016’s The Choice.