Step Into the Possessed: Universal Horror Unleashed Debuts Exorcist: Believer Haunted House

 Universal Horror Unleashed is taking horror fans deeper into darkness than ever before with the unveiling of its third major haunted house—this time based on Blumhouse’s 2023 film The Exorcist: Believer. But this isn’t just another seasonal scare. It’s part of Universal’s first year-round horror destination, and it’s launching with a vengeance in Las Vegas this August.

A Permanent Nightmare in the Desert

Opening on August 14 as part of Area15’s 20-acre expansion in Las Vegas, Universal Horror Unleashed promises an immersive horror experience that outlasts the traditional Halloween calendar. This permanent attraction marks a major milestone for Universal Destinations & Experiences, offering fans a chance to experience themed terror all year long.

Inside the Exorcist Haunted House

The Exorcist: Believer experience plunges guests into the heart of demonic possession. Beginning in a marketplace struck by a violent earthquake, visitors will soon find themselves lost in the shadowy woods where the film’s central characters—Katherine and Angela—disappear without explanation.

As the walkthrough progresses, the tension builds from room to room, with guests witnessing unsettling scenes that include both girls’ horrifying transformations and even their full-on exorcism. According to Universal, this house offers “a harrowing retelling of the film’s descent into demonic possession.”

The Prop Graveyard and Premiere House

But the terror doesn’t stop there. Guests will also gain access to Prop Graveyard, an immersive area filled with haunted relics from abandoned film sets: disturbing dolls, dismembered mannequins, and cursed movie props that blur the line between fiction and reality.

Those looking to wind down (if they dare) can step into Premiere House, a horror-themed tapas bar packed with eerie décor and memorabilia from Blumhouse’s most recent films.

A Monster-Sized Attraction Lineup

In addition to The Exorcist: Believer, the attraction lineup includes houses themed around classic Universal monsters, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974), and a chilling original story titled Scarecrow: The Reaping. Combined, these attractions offer a horror buffet that spans decades and styles—from grounded slashers to supernatural nightmares.

Horror Goes Year-Round

Universal Horror Unleashed isn’t just a theme park extension—it’s a full evolution of horror as an immersive entertainment form. Lora Sauls of Universal Orlando described the new venue as “an amazing experience” and noted how Halloween Horror Nights has become an IP of its own, growing far beyond its original roots.

For fans of the genre, this is more than an attraction. It’s a celebration of horror’s enduring power to scare, surprise, and immerse—no matter the season.

Slashers Collide in ‘Covet’: Kane Hodder and Bill Moseley Join Forces for Supernatural Horror

 In a dream pairing for horror fans, two titans of the genre—Kane Hodder and Bill Moseley—are finally sharing the screen in Covet, an upcoming horror-thriller promising brutality, mystery, and possibly something far more sinister than your average slasher.

Known respectively for iconic roles like Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th and Otis in The Devil’s Rejects, Hodder and Moseley bring decades of cult horror experience to this new twisted tale, which follows a sleazy car salesman framed for the murder of his mistress. But the plot takes a turn when he realizes the forces at play might not be human at all.

A Script With Bite

Covet is the second feature from writer-director Brian McQuery, who previously helmed Plea, a tense indie thriller that featured A Nightmare on Elm Street’s Heather Langenkamp. McQuery says the film was written with Hodder in mind, highlighting both his imposing presence and unexpected sense of humor. As for Moseley, he’ll be stepping into the role of Sheriff Troy—one that promises a layered, possibly unhinged performance.

A Horror Lineage That Runs Deep

The film is being produced by Spyder Dobrofsky under the Worlds Apart banner, which is quickly building a reputation for its genre output. Dobrofsky previously produced The Weeping, currently in post-production for a 2025 release, and directed Down Below in 2024. He calls Covet “exactly the type of horror we’ve been looking for,” emphasizing the film’s mix of chills, nostalgia, and fresh creative voice.

With Hodder’s resume that includes Hatchet’s Victor Crowley and Moseley’s cult status as Chop Top in Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2, Covet feels like a love letter to the kind of horror that’s both raw and rooted in character. These aren’t just legacy castings—they’re strategic choices to anchor the film in deep genre credibility.

Beyond the Blood

While the synopsis teases murder and supernatural manipulation, Covet is also shaping up to be about perception, guilt, and possibly redemption. McQuery’s approach leans toward slow-burning psychological horror rather than straight gore, though with this cast, expect the violence to be memorable when it comes.

As horror continues to evolve in the 2020s, Covet represents a rare intersection of indie storytelling and legendary talent. It’s the kind of horror that doesn’t just lean into the past—it sharpens it into something new.

Inside the Chaos: How 28 Years Later Evolves Danny Boyle’s Horror Legacy

 

It’s been more than two decades since Danny Boyle shook the horror genre with 28 Days Later, a post-apocalyptic vision of Britain overtaken by the Rage Virus. Now, with 28 Years Later, Boyle is back—not just to revisit that terrifying world, but to reimagine it entirely with a scope that’s larger, stranger, and more immersive than ever.

While it’s technically been 23 years since the original film, the new installment skips ahead a full 28 years in the story, and Boyle and longtime collaborator Alex Garland are using that extra fictional time to stretch the series in ambitious directions. The duo brings both a reverence for what came before and a hunger to explore what’s changed—about the world, about filmmaking, and about themselves.

Widescreen Terror

One of the most striking shifts is the decision to shoot in a 2.76:1 widescreen format—an unusually expansive ratio for a horror film. Boyle explains the choice was deliberate: “If you're on a widescreen format, they could be anywhere... you have to keep scanning, looking around for them, really.” That ever-present uncertainty plays right into the anxiety that defined the original, but now feels intensified, unbound, and panoramic.

The production leaned heavily into immersive filmmaking, using up to 20 iPhones simultaneously for certain sequences. Special camera rigs were designed to house multiple lenses and sensors, helping Boyle and cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle create a visceral, almost chaotic intimacy. The result? A sense of being right in the middle of it—as if the virus isn’t just on screen but surrounding you.

Meta Filmmaking and the Camcorder Effect

Boyle and Garland return to a “meta” approach they first explored in 2002. Back then, the idea was that a world-ending outbreak would be recorded on whatever was at hand—in that era, low-fidelity digital video. Fast forward to today, and smartphones have taken over that role. So rather than discard that gritty, raw aesthetic, Boyle embraced it, blending high-concept visuals with lo-fi authenticity.

According to Boyle, this duality—balancing the grand scale with intimate horror—is central to the film’s tone. “You realize, ‘Wow,’” he says, recalling how real-world changes like Brexit helped shape the story. Instead of going global with the virus, as most sequels might, 28 Years Later narrows its focus. It begins on an isolated island community, cut off from the UK’s infected chaos, struggling to survive alone.

Rage, Character, and a Naked Alpha

Boyle isn’t just chasing jump scares. Character remains at the heart of the film. With actors like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer leading the cast, the story grounds itself in human emotion and physical performance. There’s a scene involving a train, a naked alpha, and what Boyle calls an “unzipped spine and head”—an example of the raw, almost theatrical energy that drives the film.

His use of multiple cameras isn’t just a stylistic flourish, but a way to disorient even seasoned actors. “It’s a wonderful tool… They get to know where the cameras are and what they're doing. But this throws them. It’s like, ‘What!?’” The technique keeps performances authentic and unpredictable, echoing the chaos of the world they’re portraying.

The Long Road Back

Boyle and Garland had long flirted with the idea of a follow-up. After executive producing 2007’s 28 Weeks Later, they debated what shape a third entry should take. Many ideas fizzled—largely because they felt too expected. The virus being weaponized, or spreading globally, felt hollow. Real-world events, including the UK’s isolation in recent years, gave the filmmakers a new angle—one rooted in cultural and emotional truth rather than spectacle.

The final product promises something challenging and unfamiliar. “It’s not what you’ll expect at all,” Boyle says. “It is in certain ways, but it’s also unusual as well. So I’m very proud of that.”

Release Date

28 Years Later is set to hit theaters on June 20—and if the previews are anything to go by, it's going to be one of the boldest horror experiences in years.

Bring Her Back Review: A24’s Grotesque Take on Grief, Trauma, and Terrifying Foster Care

 

A Nightmare Cloaked in Sympathy… and Blood

If you’ve been craving a horror movie that doesn’t just rattle your nerves but pokes directly at societal wounds, Bring Her Back delivers exactly that—and then some. The latest film from Australian twin directors Michael and Danny Philippou (Talk to Me) plunges viewers into a disturbing narrative that blends grief, madness, and gore with chilling precision.

This isn’t your average haunted house flick. Instead, it’s a character-driven psychological horror that’s more interested in emotional decay than jump scares.

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The Story: Grief, Guardianship, and Gaslighting

The film opens on orphaned teens Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong), who are placed in the care of Laura, a bizarre foster mother played with eerie cheerfulness by Sally Hawkins. From the outset, Laura is a walking red flag. Her first “joke” is introducing a blind girl to a taxidermied dog without warning. That moment sets the tone for what’s to come: manipulative, morbid, and uncomfortably playful.

Laura’s oddities grow increasingly grotesque. She shares her secluded home with a mute boy named Olly (Jonah Wren Phillips) who oozes more than he speaks, and she pushes Piper and Andy into increasingly disturbing situations—including underage drinking, corpse-kissing, and urine collection in measuring cups. Yes, really.

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Piper, the Non-Sighted Survivor

Piper is far from a horror trope. She’s a strong, blind teen determined not to be babied, even refusing to use a cane. Newcomer Sora Wong imbues her with grit, though the film doesn't explore her emotional arc as fully as it could. She becomes more a subject of obsession than a fully fleshed-out character, particularly in Laura’s fixation on replacing her own drowned daughter.

Still, her presence is a breath of fresh air in a genre that too often uses disability as a gimmick. Here, it adds to the emotional and psychological complexity—especially in contrast to Laura’s dangerous delusions.

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Billy Barratt Grounds the Chaos

As Andy, Billy Barratt brings genuine vulnerability and strength to a role that could’ve easily been lost in the madness. With trauma from discovering his father’s corpse and the burden of caring for his sister, Andy is the audience’s tether to reality. He convinces social workers to let him stay with Piper despite being months from adulthood—and pays the emotional price for it.

Barratt, known for his work in Responsible Child, delivers a compelling performance that walks the tightrope between rational concern and inevitable unraveling.

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Body Horror Meets Bureaucratic Horror

Though Laura’s escalating antics steal the spotlight, Bring Her Back subtly critiques child protective services in Australia. While not the film’s central theme, its presence adds a layer of real-world terror—hinting that sometimes the true horrors lie in systems meant to protect.

The Philippou brothers mix psychological tension with grotesque visuals and impeccable sound design. The gore is loud, wet, and unflinching. If you’re squeamish about squishing and oozing, consider yourself warned. But for horror fans, the craftsmanship in these effects is exceptional.

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Final Verdict: Deranged, Ambitious, and Almost Brilliant

Bring Her Back isn’t perfect. Its emotional climax doesn’t quite hit the heights it aims for, and Piper’s development feels undercooked. But what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in risk-taking and sheer creativity.

Sally Hawkins sheds her wholesome roles and dives headfirst into twisted territory—equal parts unsettling and oddly sympathetic. It’s a strange thrill watching her play unhinged with a sprinkle of restraint.

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TL;DR

• What it is: A gory, grief-laced foster horror story.

• Who it’s for: Fans of Talk to Me, Hereditary, and anyone who finds VHS tapes and taxidermy terrifying.

• Who should skip: Viewers sensitive to graphic violence, animal imagery, or psychological manipulation.

Bring Her Back opens Friday, runs 99 minutes, and is rated R for grisly violence, graphic nudity, underage drinking, and strong language. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it will definitely stick with you long after the credits roll.

⭐ 2.5 out of 4 stars

Ed Gale, Cult Horror Icon of the ’80s, Dies at 61

 

A Loss Felt Across Horror and Hollywood

Beloved actor Ed Gale, known to horror fans worldwide for his unforgettable role as the original Chucky in Child’s Play, has passed away at the age of 61. With over 130 film, TV, and commercial credits to his name, Gale was more than a performer—he was a force of personality whose legacy endures far beyond the screen.

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Remembering a Career That Lit Up the Cult Circuit

Though many knew him best as the man behind the menacing doll in the 1988 horror hit Child’s Play, Gale’s career spanned genres and generations. He broke out in 1986 with Howard the Duck, a performance that earned him cult status overnight. From there, he became a familiar face at horror conventions, where he was adored by fans and respected by peers.

Other standout appearances include Chopper Chicks in Zombietown and a long list of genre-adjacent productions that cemented his status as a fan favorite. Whether terrifying audiences or cracking wise behind the scenes, Gale brought energy, heart, and humor to every project.

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More Than a Monster: The Man Behind the Roles

News of his passing was shared by his niece, Kayse Gale, in a heartfelt Facebook tribute. Her words painted a vivid picture of a man who was more than just a horror icon.

She wrote that Gale “hitched a ride to California with $41 and a dream” at just 20 years old—and never looked back. From there, he chased his passion with a drive that fueled a decades-long career. His niece fondly remembered him as a storyteller, a joker, a roller-rink DJ, and—perhaps most importantly—“the fun uncle.”

He loved 7-Eleven hot dogs with excessive ketchup, delighted in cheating at cribbage, and had a vendetta against Bill Maher just because he could. His charm wasn’t just reserved for the screen—it followed him everywhere he went.

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A Legacy Full of One-Liners and Light

Kayse Gale summed up her uncle’s legacy in one perfect line: “He lit up the silver screens in cult classic films... and never stopped bragging about it. Ever.”

And why shouldn’t he? In a world of polished Hollywood images, Ed Gale stood out for being raw, real, and incredibly fun to watch. His work was often unfiltered, sometimes low-budget, but always full of spirit.

His favorite role, according to his family, wasn’t on camera—it was being “the fun uncle.” And from the sound of it, he played that role just as passionately as he did any in his long and diverse career.

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Final Curtain Call

With his passing, the horror community loses a true original. Ed Gale wasn’t just a performer—he was a storyteller, a convention legend, and a cherished relative. And though the screen goes dark on his presence, his characters, memories, and one-liners will live on in horror history.

Rest in power, Ed. You took your final bow, but the encore will echo for generations.

Guillermo del Toro Returns to Toronto for a Masterclass in Canadian Horror Cinema

 

A Summer of Screams, Cinema, and Scholarship

Guillermo del Toro, the master of monsters and visionary filmmaker behind Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water, is set to return to Toronto this July—not to shoot a new film, but to teach one. From July 9–13, he’ll host From Rabid to Skinamarink: Canadian Movie Madness, a curated lecture series and screening event at TIFF Cinematheque.

This isn’t your average film festival. It’s a rare chance to learn horror from a legend—right where many of his own masterpieces were brought to life.

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A Curated Journey Through Canadian Horror

Del Toro’s program will feature screenings of groundbreaking Canadian horror films, each selected for their innovation, emotional impact, and influence on the genre. Attendees will experience:

• Rabid (1977) by David Cronenberg – A body-horror classic from the godfather of Canadian terror.

• Cube (1997) by Vincenzo Natali – A minimalist nightmare that changed indie sci-fi forever.

• Ginger Snaps (2000) by John Fawcett – A cult favorite exploring female adolescence through lycanthropy.

• Pontypool (2008) by Bruce McDonald – A psychological slow burn set entirely inside a radio station.

• Skinamarink (2022) by Kyle Edward Ball – A viral sensation that turned analog dread into modern terror.

Each screening will be paired with del Toro’s commentary, offering insights into how these films use lighting, pacing, and sound to provoke fear—and why they matter.

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Why Toronto? A Second Home for the Horror Icon

Toronto isn’t just hosting del Toro’s lectures—it’s where much of his cinematic magic happens. He’s called the city his second home after Los Angeles and filmed numerous projects there, including:

• Mimic

• Crimson Peak

• Nightmare Alley

• The Shape of Water (which won Best Picture at the Oscars)

• His in-development Netflix adaptation of Frankenstein

• TV series The Strain

Del Toro’s connection with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is long-standing. He’s previously hosted masterclasses on Hitchcock, Mexican cinema, and film noir at TIFF Lightbox. This latest series further cements his role as both a filmmaker and educator in the city.

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A Community Celebration of Horror

This event isn’t just for cinephiles—it’s a love letter to horror and a celebration of Canadian filmmaking. It also features a free outdoor screening of The Shape of Water in honor of TIFF’s 50th anniversary, co-hosted by TIFF Lightbox and del Toro.

It's a moment where horror, history, and heart all intersect.

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Final Thoughts

From Rabid to Skinamarink is more than a film series—it’s a crash course in what makes horror tick, taught by one of its greatest minds. Whether you're a die-hard genre fan or a curious newcomer, this event offers a rare opportunity to explore the shadows of cinema through the eyes of a master.

If you're anywhere near Toronto this July, consider this a must-attend. Your nightmares will thank you.

This Bone-Chilling Horror Series Has Fans Calling It a Hidden Gem

 In a sea of horror content flooding our screens, very few titles manage to carve out a space for themselves as something truly terrifying, thought-provoking, and artistically crafted. But Channel Zero, an anthology horror series quietly released on SyFy in 2016, has achieved just that. With its unsettling imagery, deep psychological themes, and a stellar 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s no surprise fans are now hailing the show as a “hidden gem” years after its final season aired.

Though it may not have received the mainstream hype of horror giants like American Horror Story or The Haunting of Hill House, Channel Zero has slowly but surely gained cult status among genre aficionados—thanks in part to its resurgence on Amazon Prime. Each season is a self-contained nightmare, inspired by viral creepypasta stories and executed with a level of creativity rarely seen on network television.

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What Makes Channel Zero So Special?

Unlike typical horror shows that rely heavily on overused tropes or cheap jump scares, Channel Zero dives deep into psychological horror. The stories aren’t just scary—they’re disturbing in ways that linger.

The first season, Candle Cove, follows a child psychologist returning to his hometown to investigate his twin brother’s disappearance, unraveling a terrifying connection to a surreal children’s TV show that only certain people seem to remember.

The following seasons only up the ante. No-End House explores a nightmarish haunted house that plays with reality. Butcher’s Block brings viewers into a decaying city plagued by disappearances and a twisted fairy tale of cannibalism. And The Dream Door—arguably the fan favorite—centers on a newlywed couple uncovering a terrifying secret hidden in their basement.

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Brutal, Beautiful, and Underrated

What truly sets Channel Zero apart is its visual storytelling. The cinematography is mesmerizing, often dreamlike, and deeply unsettling. From contortionist clowns to flesh-sculpting horrors, the show makes even the most surreal fears feel possible.

It’s also a rare example of a horror series that respects its viewers’ intelligence. Rather than spoon-feeding exposition, it lets the dread simmer, allowing us to piece together the horror ourselves. There’s a maturity to its scares—a kind of creeping, existential terror that’s hard to shake.

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Why You Should Watch It Now

Although Channel Zero concluded in 2019 after four seasons, its themes remain timeless. Fans online have continued to sing its praises, especially for how it treats its source material with reverence while still crafting something entirely original.

The show is streaming now on Amazon Prime, and if you’ve somehow missed it until now, there’s never been a better time to dive in. With only six episodes per season, it’s a perfect weekend binge—just make sure to leave a light on.

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TL;DR:
If you’re a horror fan who craves more than just gore and ghosts—if you want horror that haunts your thoughts long after the credits roll—Channel Zero is the series you’ve been looking for. A rare blend of internet folklore, creative vision, and psychological depth, it’s the kind of storytelling that proves horror can be as poetic as it is petrifying.

These 7 Horror Thrillers on Apple TV Will Wreck Your Sleep Schedule (in the Best Way)

Let’s be honest—some nights, you’re not in the mood for comfort. You’re not looking for a cozy rom-com or a feel-good drama. You want to suffer. You want the kind of movie that makes you double-check the locks, unplug your Alexa, and keep the lights on until sunrise. And for that? Apple TV has you covered.

Below are seven horror thrillers that dig deep into our darkest fears—whether it’s demonic dolls, ghost moms, or the pure existential terror of what might be lurking in your own home. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill jump scare marathons. They’re smart, disturbing, and sometimes way too relatable.

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1. Lights Out
What if the thing haunting you only existed in darkness? That’s the nightmare behind Lights Out, where every flick of the light switch could mean life or death. It’s a fast-paced, panic-inducing ride that plays on a fear we’ve all had at some point—what’s really hiding in the dark?

Why you’ll scream: You’ll never look at a shadow the same way again.

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2. Talk to Me
A bunch of teens get their hands on an embalmed hand that lets them talk to the dead. Seems fun—until one of them takes it too far. Talk to Me is what happens when spiritual dabbling meets unresolved trauma. It’s raw, edgy, and soaked in dread.

Why you’ll scream: Possession horror, but with TikTok energy and serious emotional stakes.

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3. It
You probably already know Pennywise. But if you’ve never watched the modern It, buckle up. This is more than just killer clown chaos. It’s a beautifully shot, surprisingly emotional story about childhood, fear, and fighting monsters—literal and metaphorical.

Why you’ll scream: That projector scene. You’ll know it when you see it.

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4. Mama
Two girls are rescued after surviving alone in the woods. Except… they weren’t really alone. Mama is a ghost story with a soul, mixing deep-seated trauma with a motherly presence that’s equal parts protective and malevolent.

Why you’ll scream: It messes with your instincts about who to trust—and how far a ghost mom will go.

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5. M3GAN
Picture a futuristic American Girl doll, but with murder in her code. M3GAN delivers a blend of Black Mirror-style tech anxiety and slasher camp, with just enough sass to be disturbingly fun.

Why you’ll scream: She dances, she stabs, she’s the AI horror queen you didn’t know you needed.

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6. The Hole in the Ground
Moving to the countryside sounds peaceful—unless your kid starts acting strange after a giant sinkhole appears in the forest. This one’s for the slow-burn fans who like their horror psychological, moody, and absolutely unnerving.

Why you’ll scream: It’s not just about what’s outside your house. It’s about what’s inside.

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7. Lupt
A lesser-known gem from India, Lupt takes the family road trip and twists it into a paranormal nightmare. Haunted forests, buried secrets, and guilt-fueled vengeance—it’s got all the ingredients of a sleepless night.

Why you’ll scream: The scares are classic, but the themes of karma and regret hit differently.

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So, if your idea of a good time involves spine-tingling dread and the occasional existential crisis, these Apple TV horror thrillers should be at the top of your queue. Just remember—don’t watch them alone. Or do. I won’t judge.

But if your hallway light mysteriously flickers around midnight? That’s on you.

Night & Day: Ellen Datlow’s Haunting Horror Anthology Explores Fear in Sunlight and Shadow

 

Ellen Datlow, one of horror fiction’s most respected editors, returns with a dual-sided anthology that challenges readers to confront their fears under both moonlight and midday sun. Night & Day: Tales of Nighttime and Daylight Horror—a new installment in the Saga Doubles series—brings together some of the genre’s most gifted voices to explore horror that thrives in darkness and fear that creeps in when the sun is shining.

Split into two distinct halves, Dreadful Dark: Tales of Nighttime Horror and Merciless Sun: Tales of Daylight Horror, this anthology plays with perception, tension, and setting in a striking format. The dual-cover design reflects the split in tone and content, giving readers two full experiences in one beautifully packaged book.

On the Night side, readers are plunged into traditional horror territory with tales like “Trash Night” by Clay McLeod Chapman, “We Take Off Our Skin in the Dark” by Eric LaRocca, and “The Door of Sleep” by Stephen Graham Jones. This half also includes stories by Dan Chaon, Pat Cadigan, Benjamin Percy, Gemma Files, Josh Malerman, and Nathan Ballingrud—each contributing unsettling stories that explore what lurks in the shadows.

The Day side of the book—Merciless Sun—shines a terrifying light on the type of fear that doesn’t hide. Featuring “The Bright Day” by Priya Sharma, “Faire” by Rachel Harrison, and “Trick of the Light” by Brian Evenson, this half explores the more unusual concept of horror unfolding in plain sight. Additional entries from A.T. Greenblatt, A.C. Wise, Jeffrey Ford, Robert Shearman, Kaaron Warren, and Sophie White round out the collection, delivering disquieting tales that prove sunshine offers no safety.

Reviewer Justin Soderberg notes that while every anthology has its peaks and valleys, Night & Day offers something for every horror fan. He particularly highlights “Trash Night” and “Faire” as standout entries that lingered long after closing the book. Interestingly, he found the daylight stories to be more impactful—a testament to how rare and unsettling good daylight horror can be.

Another standout feature of this release is its presentation. The dual-cover format, an homage to vintage double-sided paperbacks, sets this anthology apart visually and structurally. It invites readers to literally flip the book and their expectations as they move from one side to the other.

For those already fans of Saga Press' other creative releases, like Double Killer on the Road / The Babysitter Lives by Stephen Graham Jones, this new release will feel like a natural and thrilling next read.

Whether you're drawn to stories that thrive in darkness or ones that prove daylight doesn’t guarantee safety, Night & Day offers a curated horror experience like no other. Ellen Datlow once again proves why she remains a leading force in speculative fiction.

Night & Day: Dreadful Dark / Merciless Sun releases on September 2, 2025, from Saga Press. The audiobook edition is already available for pre-order through Libro.fm.

Corin Hardy’s Whistle Acquired by Shudder and Independent Film Company

 

Horror fans, take note—there’s a new supernatural slasher on the horizon. Independent Film Company and Shudder have officially acquired U.S. rights to Whistle, the latest horror film from The Nun director Corin Hardy. The film is set for a wide theatrical release, with a date yet to be announced, and Black Bear is handling international sales.

Starring Dafne Keen (Logan), Sophie Nélisse (Yellowjackets), Sky Yang (Rebel Moon), Percy Hynes White (My Old Ass), and Nick Frost (How to Train Your Dragon), Whistle brings together an ensemble cast for a chilling teen horror experience rooted in ancient mythology.

The screenplay, penned by Owen Egerton and adapted from his own short story, follows a group of high school outcasts who unwittingly discover a cursed artifact—an ancient Aztec Death Whistle. The relic emits a terrifying sound that summons the future deaths of those who hear it. As the body count begins to rise, the group scrambles to uncover the whistle’s dark origins and put an end to its deadly power.

Hardy describes Whistle as a passion project influenced by the heart-on-sleeve, disenfranchised-teen horror films he grew up loving. He was drawn to the eerie mythology of the Death Whistle, and used it to craft a story packed with imaginative kills and cinematic terror. “This film is built for the big screen experience,” Hardy emphasized, expressing excitement for audiences to see the final result in theaters.

Adam Koehler, Director of Acquisitions and Productions for Independent Film Company, Shudder, and RLJE Films, praised Hardy’s vision, calling the film “a vicious and bloody treat” that’s expected to stand out as one of the scariest horror films in recent box office history.

Whistle is produced by David Gross and Jesse Shapira for No Trace Camping, Macdara Kelleher for Wild Atlantic Pictures, and repped by CAA Media Finance on behalf of the filmmakers. With Shudder backing the project, expectations are high that this terrifying tale will resonate with genre fans and deliver the kind of high-concept horror that finds both box office and streaming success.

Final Destination: Bloodlines Shocks with $51.7M Debut, Becomes Franchise’s Highest Opener

 

The Final Destination franchise just proved it still has deadly momentum. After a 14-year hiatus, Final Destination: Bloodlines has exploded onto the scene with a killer opening weekend, grossing $51.7 million domestically. Critics and fans alike praised the film, helping it achieve the highest-grossing debut in the franchise’s history—beating Final Destination 5 ($42 million) and Final Destination 2 ($46 million).

The film, which follows up on the long-running horror saga known for its elaborate death sequences, now holds a Certified Fresh score of 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s only the second film in the franchise to earn that honor, a major leap from Final Destination 5’s 63%. This critical success has translated into box office dominance, with projections already placing Bloodlines as the highest-grossing entry in the series. International earnings have pushed its global total to $102 million, with expectations that it will easily cross the $100 million domestic threshold by the end of its run.

The success of Bloodlines is part of a larger trend: horror films with strong brand recognition are continuing to outperform their smaller, original counterparts. While fresh titles like Sinners are making waves with horror enthusiasts, established franchises like A Quiet Place, Terrifier, and now Final Destination are bringing in the big numbers.

Meanwhile, the box office also saw one of its biggest flops of the year. Trey Edward Shults’ Hurry Up Tomorrow, co-written and starring The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye), tanked with a mere $3.3 million debut and a brutal 19% Tomatometer score—the lowest of any 2025 film released in over 2,000 theaters. Despite Shults’ previously strong track record with films like Krisha, It Comes at Night, and Waves, critics have dismissed this latest entry as a vanity project. It follows the disappointing critical response to The Weeknd’s HBO series The Idol, which similarly earned a 19% score.

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, all eyes are on Bloodlines to see if it can maintain its momentum and push the Final Destination series into the $100 million domestic club for the first time.

Julia Ducournau’s ‘Alpha’ Misses the Mark with Disjointed Body Horror

 

Julia Ducournau, the Palme d’Or-winning filmmaker behind Titane and Raw, returns to the screen with Alpha—a body horror tale that, according to critics, stumbles through an incoherent and overwrought narrative. Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, the film was widely considered one of the competition’s biggest disappointments, despite an earnest lead performance from Mélissa Boros.

Set in a surreal, alternate version of early-2000s France, Alpha centers on 13-year-old Alpha, a Moroccan-French girl who shocks her mother by coming home with the letter “A” tattooed on her arm. This rebellious act spirals into a nightmarish plot involving a mysterious disease that turns its victims into white marble statues. While the setup holds eerie potential, the film’s execution feels frustratingly disjointed.

Alpha’s mother, a doctor played by Golshifteh Farahani, is overwhelmed as her hospital collapses under the weight of bizarre infection cases. The world outside teeters on chaos, yet inside, doctors and nurses go about their business with unsettling calm. This contradiction undercuts any real tension and seems to gesture toward social commentary—perhaps on AIDS, Covid, or societal apathy—but never lands with clarity or emotional impact.

The film’s attempts to link the disease with themes of social decay, drug addiction, misogyny, and homophobia are muddled and, at times, baffling. Viewers meet Alpha’s emaciated, drug-addicted brother, Amin, a figure seemingly designed to evoke both pity and horror. He’s just one of several characters who feel more like symbolic props than fully realized individuals.

Despite Ducournau’s reputation for visceral, genre-bending filmmaking, Alpha lacks the thematic cohesion of Raw or the provocative energy of Titane. Its tonal inconsistency, emotionally overwrought dialogue, and lack of narrative precision make for a tedious viewing experience. The metaphor-heavy script, dialed-up emotion, and weak satire create a film that feels more exhausting than enlightening.

While Mélissa Boros delivers a sincere and grounded performance as Alpha, even her efforts can't save the film from its own excesses. In the end, Alpha is a bewildering entry in Ducournau’s filmography—ambitious in scope but painfully undercooked in execution. If anything, it highlights the need for the director to return to the razor-sharp clarity and restraint that made Raw such a standout.

A24-Style Gross-Out? A Gruesome ’80s Lice Outbreak Horror Movie Is on the Way

Get ready for an itchy trip back to the 1980s—Lice, a gruesome throwback horror film, is officially in development. Starring Emile Hirsch, Justin Long, and Kevin Connolly, this wild new project is crawling with retro style and skin-crawling horror. Directed by cinematographer Jonathan Bensimon in his feature debut, the movie is already generating buzz at Cannes, where it’s being shopped for international rights.

Set in a Long Island high school during the ’80s, Lice kicks off with a military-enforced lockdown after an outbreak of lice sends the school spiraling into chaos. What starts as a routine infestation quickly escalates into paranoia, madness, and pure body horror as students turn on one another and the faculty loses control. Justin Long plays the increasingly unhinged school principal trying to maintain order, while Emile Hirsch portrays a science teacher determined to uncover the source of the outbreak. Kevin Connolly pulls double duty as both producer and star, taking on the role of Detective Sikorski, a man on the outside trying to keep the bugs from spreading beyond school grounds.

The story was developed from an original concept by Connolly and is being produced under his ActionPark Productions banner. The script comes from Anthony Musella and Shaun Harris, and Connolly has been vocal about his inspiration: “I wanted to make the kind of movies that I loved as a kid. I’m a horror fan, and I wanted to make something for guys like me—fun, weird, scary, and completely unpredictable.”

Connolly also praised director Jonathan Bensimon, calling him a rare blend of creative mind and technical skill. “When you get two incredible actors who can blend comedy and drama the way Emile and Justin can, you’ve really got something special on your hands,” he added.

Tonally, Lice is being compared to a cross between The Breakfast Club and Lord of the Flies, with a lot more bugs and a lot less charm. While no release date is confirmed yet, the film’s unique blend of dark humor, body horror, and retro high school chaos is positioning it as one of the most bizarre and promising horror concepts in recent memory.

Whether you’re nostalgic for ‘80s teen horror or just like your creature features gross and unpredictable, Lice might be worth keeping an eye on—if you can resist the urge to scratch.

A24’s Bring Her Back Is 2025’s Best-Reviewed Horror Film So Far—And It’s Not Even Out Yet

We’re only halfway through 2025, but the horror genre already has a critical frontrunner: Bring Her Back, the latest unsettling gem from A24, is currently sitting at a stunning 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. The film comes from twin brothers Danny and Michael Philippou—best known for their 2022 breakout hit Talk To Me, which scored a 94% and helped establish them as two of the most promising horror directors of this generation.

Bring Her Back tells the story of a brother and sister who uncover a terrifying ritual in the home of their new foster mother. The synopsis is intentionally vague, and even the trailer—released ahead of the film’s May 30 debut—keeps things cryptic. According to the article’s author, Paul Tassi, it’s one of those films best entered with as little knowledge as possible.

The cast is largely unknown, with one notable exception: Sally Hawkins, best known for The Shape of Water. The lead, Sora Wong, is a complete newcomer—so new, in fact, she doesn’t even have an IMDb photo yet. This marks her first acting credit, making the film’s early acclaim even more impressive.

Tassi includes Bring Her Back in a ranked list of this year’s best-reviewed horror films to date, and it stands tall above the rest:

• Bring Her Back – 95%

• Companion – 93%

• Final Destination: Bloodlines – 92%

• Heart Eyes – 81%

• The Monkey – 79%

• Clown in a Cornfield – 74%

While there are caveats about what counts as horror (notably, Sinners with its vampire themes and 97% score feels more “transcendent” than horror), Bring Her Back clearly leads the pack for now.

Interestingly, Final Destination: Bloodlines also stands out for scoring remarkably well with both critics (92%) and audiences (90%)—a rare feat for the long-running franchise.

With just weeks to go before its release, Bring Her Back is shaping up to be not just one of 2025’s most acclaimed horror titles, but potentially one of A24’s most chilling triumphs yet. Whether or not you’re brave enough to watch the trailer, one thing is clear: horror fans won’t want to miss this.

Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’ Isn’t a Horror Film—It’s a Deeply Emotional Story About Love, Identity, and Humanity

At this year’s Cannes Film Festival, acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro made waves by previewing his highly anticipated adaptation of Frankenstein, clarifying one major point: he’s not making a horror movie.

Instead, del Toro is taking a profoundly personal and emotional approach to Mary Shelley’s classic tale. During a candid conversation alongside Oscar-winning composer Alexandre Desplat, the filmmaker opened up about how this version of Frankenstein leans into themes of fatherhood, misunderstood identity, and empathy. “I’m asking a question about being a father, being a son,” he explained. “I’m not doing a horror movie—ever. I’m not trying to do that.”

This marks a departure from what many might expect from a Frankenstein adaptation, especially one helmed by del Toro, known for dark fantasy films like Pan’s Labyrinth, The Shape of Water, and Crimson Peak. But as fans of his work know, del Toro has always found beauty in monsters. His focus isn’t fear—it’s feeling.

Desplat, who collaborated with del Toro on The Shape of Water and Pinocchio, echoed this sentiment. “Guillermo’s cinema is very lyrical, and my music is rather lyrical too,” he said. “The music of Frankenstein will be very lyrical and emotional… I’m not trying to write horrific music.”

The duo discussed how their latest project continues their pattern of spotlighting misunderstood beings. In del Toro’s past works, creatures often become symbols of vulnerability rather than terror. Desplat cited The Shape of Water as an example, where the amphibious creature seems frightening at first but evolves into a touching, romantic lead.

Del Toro recounted a moment from his youth that shaped this perspective. Seeing Marilyn Monroe in The Seven Year Itch, he recalled a line where Monroe’s character says the creature from Frankenstein just needed someone to like him. That scene, del Toro shared, was when he first connected deeply with the misunderstood monster. “I fell in love with the creature in that scene at a very early age,” he said. “All we have is people that look at people the wrong way. That’s what we have in this world.”

The upcoming Frankenstein stars Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac, and Mia Goth, and will be released by Netflix this fall. While the score is still being finalized, the creative duo is focused on building a film rooted in emotion rather than fear. “We’re finding the emotion,” del Toro said. “And what I can say is, for me, it’s an incredibly emotional movie.”

Rather than a traditional monster flick, del Toro’s Frankenstein looks to be a soul-searching, artful reimagining that explores the ache of being misunderstood—and the human need for connection.

First Look: Halloween Horror Nights 34 Merch Drops at Universal Orlando

Spooky season is creeping in early at Universal Orlando! Brand-new merchandise for Halloween Horror Nights 34 just hit the shelves, giving fans a first look at this year’s terrifyingly fun collection.

The merch lineup includes everything from graphic tees and retro-inspired posters to haunting mugs, shot glasses, keychains, and lanyards. Designs feature classic Halloween vibes with splashes of neon and nostalgic fonts that nod to vintage horror and '80s aesthetics. One standout item? A blacklight-reactive shirt that’s already turning heads among parkgoers.

Most of these items are exclusive to Universal Studios Florida and available at the Five & Dime shop inside the park. As with previous years, select items may hit the Universal online store closer to the event’s official start date—but diehard fans know the best stuff tends to vanish quickly.

Whether you're planning to attend HHN34 or just want to haunt in style from home, this merch drop offers the perfect way to celebrate horror all year long.

In Search of Darkness: 1995–1999 Trailer Dives Into Late '90s Horror

The 1990s are back in all their bloody glory. In Search of Darkness: 1995–1999, the latest installment in the celebrated horror documentary series, just dropped an exclusive trailer—and its pure retro horror gold.

Covering a pivotal era often overlooked in horror history, this doc explores the shift from VHS to DVD, the birth of teen slashers, and the evolution of the horror genre as it crept into the mainstream. With new interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and deep dives into cult favorites and forgotten gems, this documentary is a must-watch for any horror fan who grew up in—or is just obsessed with—the late '90s.

Pre-orders for physical copies are open now, and like previous entries in the In Search of Darkness series, this edition is expected to be packed with extras and fan-pleasing content.

Whether you’re here for Scream, Event Horizon, or deep cuts like The Ugly, this doc promises to be a love letter to an era that helped shape the horror landscape of today.

Husband Charged in 2017 Cold Case Murder of Anna Maciejewska

Nearly seven years after Anna Maciejewska vanished without a trace, justice may finally be within reach. This week, her husband, Allen Gould, was charged with criminal homicide in connection to her disappearance and death—a cold case that haunted Chester County, Pennsylvania since 2017.

Anna, a 43-year-old mother and professional, was reported missing by her employer when she failed to show up for work. Despite an initial search, it wasn’t until nearly a year later that her body was found in a wooded area. Rumors, suspicion, and frustration mounted over the years as the case stalled without arrests—until now.

Prosecutors allege Gould's statements never quite added up, and new forensic evidence has finally linked him to her murder. The arrest has brought renewed attention to the case, along with hope for closure for Anna’s family and community.

This latest development underscores how cold cases can still be solved, even after years of silence. Anna’s voice may have been taken, but the fight for justice continues in her name.

Maika Monroe Set to Star in Gothic Horror Victorian Psycho

Maika Monroe, best known for her breakout role in It Follows, is diving back into the horror genre with a chilling new lead in Victorian Psycho. Described as a psychological thriller with gothic flair, the film promises a haunting blend of elegance and insanity set in a twisted 19th-century backdrop.

Directed by newcomer Lenny Dorfman, Victorian Psycho follows a mysterious woman navigating the upper crust of society as darkness and bloodshed unfold around her. With themes of obsession, identity, and madness, the film is poised to tap into classic gothic horror vibes with a modern edge.

Monroe’s return to horror is sure to excite fans who have followed her genre-defining performances. With a title like Victorian Psycho, expectations are high for a stylish descent into period-piece terror.

More details are expected to emerge as production begins. We’ll be watching this one closely.

Lee Cronin’s The Mummy Casts Natalie Grace in Lead Role

A new face of horror is rising from the tomb—Natalie Grace has been officially cast as the lead in Lee Cronin’s upcoming reboot of The Mummy. The Evil Dead Rise director is taking on the legendary Universal Monsters property with a fresh vision, promising a darker, more visceral take.

Grace, a rising star with critical buzz, is stepping into a role that’s been portrayed by horror legends before—but this version isn’t just about ancient curses and wrapped bandages. Cronin’s version is said to center around a grounded, modern-day horror rooted in atmosphere, dread, and character-driven storytelling.

This marks a major step forward for Universal’s ongoing effort to reimagine its classic monsters through a more auteur-driven lens. With Cronin behind the camera and Grace in front of it, The Mummy could breathe new (and terrifying) life into the franchise.

Stay tuned as more details emerge—this is one horror revival worth watching.

Was Larry Eugene Parks the Victim of a Serial Killer?

The 1991 murder of Larry Eugene Parks has remained a disturbing mystery for over three decades, but new developments are reviving an unsettling theory—was Parks targeted by a serial killer?

Larry, a 29-year-old father and husband from Hammond, Indiana, was found strangled and dumped near a river, his body discovered shortly after he left home for a walk. At first glance, his death seemed like an isolated tragedy. But years later, as the remains of several Black men were uncovered across northern Indiana and Illinois—some mutilated, some strangled—the idea of a serial killer began to take shape.

Authorities have since revisited Larry’s case as part of a broader investigation into whether these deaths are connected. What stands out is the chilling pattern: many of the victims were around the same age, same race, and died under suspiciously similar circumstances. While a definitive link has yet to be confirmed, the families of the victims—and the public—deserve answers.

Unsolved Mysteries has brought renewed attention to Larry’s case, highlighting both the failures of early investigations and the racial disparities in how victims’ stories are handled. As the true crime community digs deeper and public pressure mounts, the hope is that someone out there may finally come forward with the missing piece.

If you have any information related to Larry Eugene Parks or similar cases in the region, contact local authorities or visit unsolved.com.

Ghost Face and Oni Join Dead by Daylight’s 2v8 Mode in Latest Update

Dead by Daylight just dialed up the horror with the latest expansion of its experimental 2v8 mode, officially adding two iconic killers to the chaos: Ghost Face and The Oni. This announcement comes as part of the game's ongoing public test build, letting fans experience a whole new layer of multiplayer terror.

The 2v8 mode, which flips the script by pitting two killers against eight survivors in fast-paced, high-anxiety gameplay, now brings in the cunning stealth of Ghost Face and the brute power of The Oni. Each character introduces unique gameplay dynamics that could change the balance of fear in the fog.

Ghost Face continues to stalk from the shadows, capable of sneaking up on unsuspecting survivors for devastating takedowns. Meanwhile, The Oni’s wrath builds with every hit, eventually allowing him to unleash a brutal fury capable of turning the tide in seconds.

This update signals Behaviour Interactive’s commitment to refining and expanding 2v8 mode before its full release. If you thought the standard 1v4 format was intense, this latest evolution might just make you think twice before entering the fog.