This summer, BUDDY—starring America’s favorite, deceptively sweet orange unicorn—emerged as the year’s breakout indie-horror box office sensation. Roaring past $26 million domestically, the film secured the biggest opening of the year for any release playing in fewer than 1,800 screens. It delivered an astonishing box office run for an independent, original, R-rated horror feature.
Shattering Box Office Records
The record-breaking momentum didn’t stop at its opening weekend. BUDDY continued its unstoppable run, charging past The Invite to become the highest-grossing Sundance 2026 acquisition to date. The film has officially become the highest-grossing release in Saban Films’ history. It is also the third-highest-grossing theatrical release ever for Roadside Attractions, surpassing Judy and sitting behind only I Can Only Imagine and Manchester by the Sea. Buddy even returned to theaters with a sing-along event. Now, he’s coming to a TV near you.
A Twisted Take on Children’s Television
The feature turns childhood nostalgia completely on its head. Set inside the vibrant, sunlit set of the fictional show “It’s Buddy!”, a group of happy children spend their days singing, dancing, and spreading cheer alongside their beloved host. But when one child refuses to play along, Buddy’s cheerful facade fractures, revealing a sinister, deadly dark side beneath the puppet exterior.
An All-Star Ensemble and Creative Team
Directed by Casper Kelly (Too Many Cooks, Mandy) and co-written with Jamie King, the horror-comedy boasts an incredible ensemble cast. The film stars Cristin Milioti, Delaney Quinn, Patton Oswalt, and Michael Shannon. There are also standout supporting performances from Topher Grace and Keegan-Michael Key. BoulderLight Pictures and Low Spark Films produced the project in association with Sipur Studios and Substance. Tyler Davidson, Drew Sykes, Raphael Margules, J.D. Lifshitz, and Tracy Rosenblum served as producers.
Bringing the Terror Home This October
Following its historic run in movie theaters, horror fans won’t have to wait long to bring the chaos into their own living rooms. Roadside Attractions and Saban Films are bringing BUDDY home. The film lands on Digital on October 13, 2026!
