If you’re tired of psychological horror thrillers that have the depth of a kiddie pool, listen up. MainStage Productions and Homestead Entertainment are kicking off 2026 with MEAT, a new film from writer-director LaRae Wilson. And no, it’s not a cooking show—unless you count “cooking up pure nightmare fuel.”
The Plot: Checking In, Passing Out
Meet Lauren (played by Tiffany Toney). She’s 26, pregnant, and doing the fearless work of escaping an abusive relationship. She lands at a local halfway house, thinking she’s finally found a sanctuary.
Spoiler alert: She hasn’t.
It turns out the “charity” being offered comes with a side of “sinister conspiracy.” When the other women in the house start pulling a disappearing act, Lauren realizes she’s caught in a trap. Now, it’s a high-stakes fight for her life—and her unborn baby’s life—against people whose motives are darker than a burnt brisket.
A Cast That Hits Different
This isn’t just a bunch of actors reading lines; this crew has some serious street cred. It stars Vincent M. Ward, who you may remember from The Walking Dead. Not only is he starring in this, but he’s also producing it. Then, you’ve got Tiffany Toney, whose performance is about as real as it gets. Fun fact (well, more like an “impressive but intense” fact): Tiffany was actually experiencing homelessness in real life while filming this role. Talk about method acting—that grit you see on screen is 100% authentic. Tia P.: The musician/actress from Netflix’s “Rhythm + Flow” is also on board to add some extra flavor to the ensemble.
Why It’s More Than Just a Slasher
Director LaRae Wilson isn’t just trying to make you spill your popcorn. She wrote MEAT to highlight the people society often ignores—the ones we tend to walk past on the street without making eye contact.
As Wilson’s third feature, this film cements her status as a filmmaker who isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. She’s using her platform to protect and advocate for women and children who often lack a voice. Vincent M. Ward even raved about the project, calling the story “fresh, new, and (pun intended) meaty.”
Dig In!
Let the official trailer whet your appetite and watch Meat on the MainStage Productions YouTube channel. It’s a wild, thought-provoking ride. If you’re looking for a thriller with an actual soul (and a lot of tension), this is the one to watch.
