It’s time for a psychological thriller that’s actually got something to say. MainStage Productions and Homestead Entertainment have teamed up to bring us MEAT, a gripping new film from writer-director LaRae Wilson, and it’s set to hit streaming platforms in 2026!
The Story: A Refuge Turned Nightmare
MEAT follows 26-year-old Lauren (Tiffany Toney), who is pregnant and desperately fleeing an abusive relationship. She thinks she’s finally found safety at a local halfway house; however, the “help” she’s receiving comes with a terrifying price.
When other young women start disappearing, Lauren realizes she’s trapped in a sinister trap. It’s a fight for her life—and the life of her unborn child—against people with truly dark motives.
A Killer Cast
This film is stacked with talent who bring a lot of heart (and grit) to the screen. Toney stars alongside Vincent M. Ward: You know him from The Walking Dead—he’s starring in and producing this one! Rhonda Bankston joins them along with Tia P., the musician/actress from Netflix’s Rhythm and Flow.
Why This Movie Matters
This isn’t just a jump-scare fest. Director LaRae Wilson wrote the film to give a voice to the people society often overlooks—the ones we step around on the sidewalk without a second thought.
The connection to the material is also deep for the cast. Actress Tiffany Toney revealed that she was homeless in real life while filming this role, making her portrayal painfully authentic.
“People often cast me as the ‘mistress’ or ‘bad girl,’ so this was different,” Toney said. “Nobody knew it at the time, but I was homeless in real life when we shot this. Also, as a survivor of abuse, I could relate to Lauren.” Toney stated.
Vincent M. Ward praised Wilson for creating a “safe space” to explore these heavy, human themes, calling the story “fresh, new, and meaty.”
A Fearless Voice in Film
MEAT is Wilson’s third feature, and she’s quickly becoming a significant name. As a female filmmaker leading the charge, she’s using her platform to tell stories that protect and represent women and children who can’t protect themselves.
Keep your eyes peeled for that New Year’s Day trailer! It sounds like it’s going to be a wild, thought-provoking ride! Here are the first-look images to give you a preview of what’s to come.The official trailer is dropping on New Year’s Day over at the MainStage Productions YouTube channel.
