The highly anticipated horror feature, A Soldier’s Descent, continues to build buzz. The announcement has come that veteran actress Jennifer Banko has joined the cast. Known to horror fans for her roles in classics like Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood and Leatherface: Texas Chainsaw Massacre III, Banko adds a significant genre pedigree to the project.
Banko joins Sandy Johnson (Halloween), Laurene Landon (Maniac Cop), and Andrew Pierson (Return of the Living Dead: Trash’s Revenge). The cast also includes Kristina Lafser and J. Gaven Wilde (The Black Phone). Also newly announced is Kaitlyn Trentham, fresh off the nationwide theatrical release of The Jester 2.
Directed by Carissa Pierson and written by horror veteran Phil Herman, A Soldier’s Descent is poised to be a buzzed-about movie.
More than just a slasher, this film is a historic first for the genre. It tackles the raw, real-world struggles of military trauma, including PTSD, survivor’s guilt, veteran suicide, substance abuse, and domestic violence. With over 15 real-life Veterans involved in the production—lending vital authenticity—the film confronts these crises head-on, merging true-to-life psychological Horror with intense slasher brutality.
Director Carissa Pierson explained the film’s vision: “Horror has always been about facing our fears, but with this film, we’re confronting the kind of fear that lingers long after the credits roll. We’re telling a story that’s raw, human, and terrifying in a way audiences have never seen. This is Horror that refuses to play it safe.”
Production is scheduled to begin this November at authentic, iconic locations in North Carolina. That includes a veteran-favorite spot, Charlie Mike’s Pub in Fayetteville. Filming will also be done at the famous Myers House replica in NC. Also at the Madison Dry Goods Country Store and Museum.
Fans can support this groundbreaking project and grab exclusive perks by visiting the film’s Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign. With a fearless creative team and a crucial social mission, A Soldier’s Descent is set to make history as a slasher that is as emotionally raw and socially impactful as it is terrifying.
