'The Merciless' was a horror novel written by author Danielle Vega and released in June 2014. However, even before its release, the book had plans for a movie by Lionsgate. It was meant to be written and directed by 'Pretty Little Liars' creator, I. Marlene King. The script was completed in early 2015, then there was no more news until late 2016, when director Hannah Macpherson was appointed to the helm of the movie. The script was rewritten and in late 2019, it was confirmed that she was attached to direct this film. The Coronavirus pandemic hit, and then in March of 2021, Macpherson stated on a podcast that the movie will never be made due to many insider reasons.

For the many fans of the works created by these talented women, waiting for 7 years only to hear that the project was cancelled is disappointing to say the least. 'The Merciless' is an extremely exciting novel, with many twists and turns, keeping those who read it on the edge of their seats with hearts racing. It has great potential to be a very unique, entertaining horror movie with strong, interesting female characters at the helm of the story. It feels like such a shame for such an entertaining story, nearly perfect for the big screen, get scrapped after 7 years of production. So I am requesting that Alloy Entertainment and Lionsgate rethink their decision of cancelling this movie.