Shudder Unveils Trailer for the Folk Horror 'The Holy Boy' Ahead of November Streaming Premiere

Shudder Unveils Trailer for the Folk Horror ‘The Holy Boy’ Ahead of November Streaming Premiere

The acclaimed director of A Classic Horror Story returns with a disturbing new Italian genre entry. Paolo Strippoli helms the unsettling psychological horror feature titled The Holy Boy. Shudder acquired the exclusive streaming rights for home audiences and released the film’s trailer.

A Secluded Village with Dark Secrets

According to Shudder, Sergio (Michele Riondino), a teacher tormented by his past, is transferred to Remis, a secluded village known as Italy’s happiest town. However, Sergio soon discovers that behind the town’s joyful facade lies a disturbing secret:

Every week, the local villagers gather for a strange communal ritual. They take turns hugging Matteo, an introverted fifteen-year-old boy living in town. The residents firmly believe the teenager’s physical embrace instantly removes all human sorrow and pain. As Sergio uncovers that the village’s devotion to Matteo is far from benevolent, he tries to rescue the boy known as the Angel of Remis, igniting the community’s wrath.

Acclaimed Talent Drives the Terror

Acclaimed actor Michele Riondino stars as Sergio alongside newcomer Giulio Feltri as Matteo. The supporting ensemble also includes Paolo Pierobon, Romana Maggiora Vergano, and Sergio Romano. Strippoli co-wrote the chilling screenplay alongside Jacopo Del Giudice and Milo Tissone. Furthermore, the script previously won the prestigious Franco Solinas Award under a different working title.

The film has drawn widespread praise during its festival run, including wins for the Audience Award and New Wave Best Director at Fantastic Fest. It was also an official selection at the Venice Film Festival and the BFI London Film Festival.

A Rising Master of Italian Fear

Director Paolo Strippoli continues to solidify his reputation as a modern Italian horror visionary. He previously co-directed the hit Netflix original film A Classic Horror Story. His acclaimed second feature, Piove, also competed at major global festivals like Sitges and Fantastic Fest. Genre fans can now stream his newest atmospheric nightmare, The Holy Boy, exclusively on Shudder beginning on November 27.