Richard Brake Scared Everyone On ‘Pinocchio Unstrung’ And Talks Freddy Krueger Fancasting [Exclusive]

Post Summary

Pinocchio Unstrung is the latest in the Twisted Childhood Universe of films. As far as the movies go, it’s among the best of the best that they’ve put out. It has plenty of practical effects and tells a horrific retelling of the Pinocchio story. Starring in the film as Geppetto is Richard Brake. The veteran actor carries the film on his back with what amounts to a dual role playing the doting grandfather to James and the terrifying creator of Pinocchio.

Pinocchio Unstrung is out in theaters today, July 24th, 2026.

Scaring Kids, Freddy Krueger, And Influences On His Role

We got the chance to sit down with Richard Brake to talk all about his role in the film, what drew him to it, and of course a bit of fancasting for the role of Freddy Krueger in the new A Nightmare On Elm Street film that Paramount is working on. Check out the interview below.

A Great Conversation With A Great Actor

Chatting with Richard about the film was enlightening on multiple levels. Not only did he scare the kids on set with his performance but he managed to be as cool and warm as the other side of the Geppetto coin as well. The influence of his own time as a father going into the performance was also nice to hear about.

For someone who’s been in as many horror movies as he has, it was high praise for him to talk so highly about the practical effects in the film as well. The puppetry and models used for Pinocchio and the other creatures in the film are awesome and definitely add to the whole package.

However, it was also very telling when Richard was talking about fans wishing for him to play the role of Freddy Krueger. No one can step into Robert Englund’s shoes but Richard would be a great talent to take on the role. And he’s up to do it if the offer ever comes. It doesn’t get much better than that, but we’ll have to see when that film comes out.

As for Pinocchio Unstrung, it comes out in theaters July 24th and features some amazing puppet work.

For more on Horror, make sure to check back to That Hollywood Show.