Get ready for some serious seaside scares! Screamify, the independent horror streaming platform based in Nashville, has just announced a major development deal with writer/director David Keane to produce and distribute his next feature film. This currently untitled project promises to be a creature feature set on the iconic Jersey Shore. A mysterious sea monster will terrorize the beachside town of Wildwood, New Jersey!
A First
This marks one of Screamify’s first original content production. It perfectly aligns with the platform’s mission to champion independent horror filmmakers.
But that’s not all – in addition to backing the film itself, Screamify will also produce a behind-the-scenes documentary! This will chronicle the entire making of the film, offering horror fans an unprecedented inside look at the creation of a low-budget indie horror movie from start to finish.
A Mysterious Sea Creature Terrorizing the Jersey Shore
Keane’s new film is set to unleash aquatic terror on the New Jersey beachfront, as an unknown monster emerges from the depths to prey on unsuspecting residents of the town. By setting the film in the popular resort town of Wildwood, NJ, the project cleverly infuses a classic summertime locale with chilling supernatural horror.
While specific plot details are still under wraps, the concept promises a thrilling blend of regional folklore and creature-feature mayhem. Screamify executives were captivated by this premise and Keane’s creative vision after seeing his previous work. Their goal? To deliver a practical, effects-driven monster movie directly to their streaming audience. The decision to simultaneously produce a making-of documentary truly underscores Screamify’s dedication to indie creators, giving horror fans a transparent view of the filmmaking process and showcasing how these terrifying visions come to life.
Director David Keane & The Creature-Feature Dream Team
David Keane is quickly emerging as a notable voice in the indie horror genre. However, he is already recognized for his impressive 2023 short film, Dirty Jersey. That film, which reimagined the Jersey Devil legend, helped put Keane on the map, demonstrating his talent for regional monster lore and visceral gore. This new deal with Screamify gives Keane his first feature-length directing opportunity under the platform’s banner.
To bring this sea creature opus to terrifying life, Screamify and Keane have assembled a truly talented indie horror team. Brian Keenan will serve as cinematographer. He previously collaborated with Keane on “Dirty Jersey” and recently served as cinematographer for “Hell House LLC: Lineage” (2025). He’ll bring that signature atmospheric dread to the film’s visual style.
Creature design will be in the hands of Matthew Millard. Millard is known for his work on blockbuster genre films like Venom, Ready Player One, and Godzilla vs. Kong.
Special Makeup Effects, however, will be handled by Rich Hill. The award-winning makeup effects artist is recognized for his work on the indie horror Hideout (2021). He also collaborated with Keane on “Dirty Jersey” and will ensure plenty of practical gore effects.
This assembled team combines exciting emerging talent with seasoned industry veterans. Keane’s hands-on style and love of practical effects promise imaginative creature design and truly visceral scares. Screamify’s backing perfectly reflects the platform’s goal of elevating independent productions with top-notch professional-quality talent.
Screamify’s Mission to Empower Indie Horror
This development deal with David Keane illustrates Screamify’s broader mission. It aims to actively support independent horror creators and bring fresh, terrifying content directly to fans. Launched in late 2024, Screamify dedicates itself exclusively to independent horror films and series. The platform prides itself on curating indie horror gems and actively supporting new projects that might otherwise struggle to find studio backing.
Screamify’s commitment goes beyond just streaming; it includes directly funding original productions and channeling subscriber support straight into indie horror projects and acquisitions. Producing original films and companion documentaries demonstrates a clear and active reinvestment in the indie horror ecosystem.
With Keane’s creature feature now in development, Screamify continues to champion indie horror from concept to screen, exemplifying how independent creators can truly flourish when provided with the freedom and support to bring their wildest nightmares to life. We can’t wait to see what emerges from the depths of the Jersey Shore!
