Get ready for a double dose of horror royalty! Variety reports that the upcoming slasher film River is bringing together two of modern horror’s most celebrated Scream Queens: Jessica Rothe (Happy Death Day franchise) and Jane Levy (Evil Dead, Don’t Breathe).
The film is a Shudder Original Production currently in post-production and slated for a theatrical release through IFC. Helming the project is Joshua Giuliano, making his feature film directorial debut.
River sets a terrifying stage by throwing estranged family members into an isolated fight for their lives. In the film, three estranged siblings reunite in their hometown after their father’s death. They embark on a solemn journey to scatter his ashes at his favorite spot on a remote river. But when their boat breaks down, the trip devolves into a waking nightmare. Stranded miles from help with no cell service, they soon realize a killer is stalking them. The siblings must put aside their grudges and fight together against a ruthless enemy.
Levy and Rothe are joined by Dane DiLiegro (Prey). Max Mattern, who also appears in the recently released Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy, now on Peacock, also stars
Director Joshua Giuliano is an exciting new name in the genre. His journey from being “terrified of everything” to crafting horror showcases a unique perspective. His short films have already garnered significant industry recognition, winning multiple awards at prestigious events including the Fantasia Film Festival, Fantastic Fest, and Frightfest.
Giuliano shared his enthusiasm for the project’s journey:
“’River’ was six years in the making, a labor of love that culminated in the most rewarding experience of my life… Working with Shudder has been a thrilling collaboration and knowing ‘River’ will have a theatrical release is a dream come true. I look forward to sharing our terrifying creation with audiences.”
River boasts a production pedigree that suggests high-quality genre execution. Steven Schneider (Insidious) from Spooky Pictures produces alongside Nick Antosca and Alex Hedlund (Chucky) from Eat the Cat. Executive producers include Jeffrey Tinnell and Robert Tinnell (The Hunted) from Allegheny Image Factory, as well as Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier from Upgrade.
Nicholas Lazo, Shudder’s Vice President of Development and Production, praised the director’s potential:
“Josh is a striking new voice in horror… His simultaneously beautiful and horrifying script captivated us from page one, and it’s our privilege to team up with such an immensely talented group of producers, cast and crew to bring his feature debut to life.”
With two powerhouse scream queens battling a mythic killer under the guidance of an exciting new director, River is shaping up to be a defining horror release for Shudder.
