Columbus’ 1492 Pictures acquired remake rights from Next Entertainment World (NEW) to the project, about a failed suicide who must banish four ghosts by granting each its wish.

The filmmaker is attached to direct and will produce alongside his 1492 partners Michael Barnathan and Mark Radcliffe.

WME represents Columbus and 1492. CEO Youngjoo Suh of sales agent Finecut negotiated the deal on behalf of NEW. 

“After watching Hello Ghost I was immediately struck by the film’s ability to mix comedy, drama and complex emotional themes,” Columbus said. “Its strong universal storyline translates to any culture, and I’m looking forward to bringing a version of this wonderful story to the English-speaking audience.”

“We are thrilled to have Chris Columbus as the director for the Hello Ghost remake,” NEW vp Kyungik Jang said. “We have gladly accepted his offer knowing that he is the guru of family comedy films, and someone who has a solid fan base throughout all ages. “