Blumhouse Atomic Monster, Focus Features, Divide/Conquer, and Spooky Pictures have officially joined forces to produce Occupant, the highly anticipated next feature film from rising horror filmmaker Josh Giuliano.
Focus Features has acquired worldwide rights for the project, with Universal Pictures International set to handle international distribution. The venture is mounted in association with Closer Media. It marks another high-profile union between industry powerhouse studios committed to backing bold, auteur-driven genre cinema. Previous projects include Obsession, The Odyssey, and Mosters and Minions.
A Mysterious Vision from a Festival Favorite
While exact narrative details and the official logline for Occupant remain under wraps, Giuliano will write and direct the feature. An alumnus of the prestigious American Film Institute’s directing program, Giuliano has spent years building a formidable reputation across the global festival circuit. Taking home top accolades at premier genre institutions including Fantasia, Fantastic Fest, and FrightFest. His track record of sharp, atmospheric storytelling and visual precision has positioned him as one of the most exciting new voices stepping into feature-length horror.
Building a Pipeline for Emerging Talent
The project underscores the primary mission of Blumhouse Atomic Monster’s indie slate. Established specifically to identify, nurture, and elevate visionary horror directors. Following the global success of Curry Barker’s breakout sensation Obsession, and ahead of Barker’s upcoming feature Anything But Ghosts, Occupant highlights a seamless pipeline for new creative voices.
Executive producer Sam Zimmerman brought Giuliano into the fold. He recognized his distinct voice and connected him with Divide/Conquer producers Greg Gilreath and Adam Hendricks to shepherd the film.
An All-Star Producing Team Behind the Scream
The feature is anchored by a powerhouse producing team comprising Jason Blum for Blumhouse Atomic Monster, Greg Gilreath and Adam Hendricks for Divide/Conquer, and veteran horror producer Steven Schneider for Spooky Pictures. The executive producing roster features Daniel Bekerman, Derek Bishé, Neil Mathieson, Allie Steffler, Sam Zimmerman, and Jeremy Kulyk. CAA, Kaplan Perrone Entertainment, and Marios Rush represent Giuliano as the secretive project moves forward.
