Epic Pictures and Dread have officially announced the release of Gator Face, an upcoming creature feature from writer and director Padraig Reynolds (Rites of Spring, Open 24 Hours). Shot on location in the murky Florida Everglades, the film shuns modern digital shortcuts in favor of live alligators, practical gore, and in-camera effects.
A Sun-Soaked Getaway Morphs into a Sacrificial Nightmare
The movie follows a group of friends heading to Florida for a getaway, only for their vacation to collapse into an isolated struggle for survival. Trapped deep within the swamps, the group falls prey to a sinister local cult that sacrifices unsuspecting victims to an ancient alligator deity. Soon, they are forced to combat both the cult members and the lethal creature worshiped at the center of their bloody faith.
A Return to Old-School Practical Filmmaking and Southern Folklore
Blending slasher elements, creature horror, and Southern folklore, Reynolds and his team committed to grounding the terrifying moments in physical reality. Get this: the movie features zero CGI or AI. The movie captures the chaotic, unpredictable texture of classic 1980s monster movies.
The ensemble cast features Tabitha Brownstone, Amariah Dionne, and Scot Scurlock, alongside Ella Mosca and Nikolas Kolasinski.
Ethical Wildlife Partnerships Bring Authentic Danger to the Screen
To safely feature live reptiles on camera, the production collaborated directly with Bellowing Acres. A North Florida sanctuary dedicated to rescuing nuisance and non-releasable alligators. Working alongside seasoned animal handlers allowed the filmmakers to capture raw, authentic predator behavior in real swamp environments. At the same time, the filmmakers maintained strict safety standards for both the crew and the animals.
Jason Scott Goldberg and Wes Thomas produce, with Patrick Ewald serving as executive producer.
Gator Face aims to deliver a wild and bloody homage to the golden era of independent creature features. So, get ready to venture into the swamp. Gator Face will open in select theaters on September 11th and will be available on digital platforms beginning September 15th.
