The monster movie renaissance is officially digging up some serious talent. Deadline reports that “Dexter” and “Fear the Walking Dead” alum Keith Carradine has joined the cast of Skeletons. It’s a highly anticipated new creature feature from J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot.
Carradine joins Academy Award-winning Brie Larson (Kong: Skull Island) for the film described as a “modern, elevated take on the classic creature horror film.” The project is a major collaborative effort between Infrared, Bad Robot Productions, and Assemble Media.
A Horrifying Domestic Secret
The film is based on the acclaimed short story “Fail-Safe” by Bram Stoker Award-nominated author Philip Fracassi. Skeletons shifts the traditional monster-movie lens into the domestic sphere.
The story is told entirely from the perspective of a young boy. He gradually realizes that his picturesque family life is a lie. However, as he digs deeper, he discovers that his parents are harboring a disturbing secret regarding his mother’s (Brie Larson) true, monstrous nature.
Infrared President of Production Drew Simon teased a massive, transformative performance from the lead actress:
“I’m beyond excited to see Brie take on this role – it’s frightening, emotionally charged, and so different from anything she’s done before. The depth and intensity this character demands is immense, and I know Brie’s going to bring something unforgettable to the screen.”
A Stacked Genre Ensemble
Carradine and Larson are joined by Kyle Gallner (Smile), John Goodman (10 Cloverfield Lane), Ione Skye (Say Anything), and Daithí Ó Haragáin.
Behind the Camera: Horror’s Busiest Architects
The creative pedigree behind the scenes is nothing short of spectacular. JT Mollner, the brilliant mind behind the recent indie-horror masterpiece Strange Darling, is directing the film. Mollner also handled the script revisions, working from an initial screenplay drafted by Brian Duffield (No One Will Save You).
Mollner is quickly becoming a prolific and sought-after name in the genre. In addition to Skeletons, the filmmaker’s upcoming slate includes the adaptation of Stephen King’s The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon, as well as a highly anticipated, top-secret Texas Chainsaw Massacre television series currently in development over at A24.
With Bad Robot backing a script from the genre’s sharpest writers and a cast of heavy-hitters, Skeletons is shaping up to be a genuinely terrifying, character-driven nightmare. Stay tuned for updates and an official release date.
