Shout! Studios Unleashes a Twisted Horror Hit with Succubus
Shout! Studios is gearing up to deliver a chilling yet amusing horror experience with its latest feature, Succubus. The film stars Brendan Bradley, known for his work in Non-Transferable, in a story that dives into the often misleading nature of online appearances. At its core, Succubus serves as a cautionary tale, urging viewers to remember that what is seen on the surface—particularly in the realm of dating apps—does not always reflect true character or intentions.
Joining Bradley in this spine-tingling venture are a stellar cast including the iconic Ron Perlman from Nightmare Alley, the legendary Rosanna Arquette famed for Pulp Fiction, up-and-coming talent Rachel Cook (The Hack Job), Olivia Applegate from Love & Death, and Emily Kincaid from Abducted in Plain Sight. This diverse ensemble promises to deliver a range of performances that heighten the film’s tension and twisted humor.
The film’s relatability is particularly striking, as it explores the contemporary pitfalls of dating apps—an all-too-familiar arena where appearances can often be deceiving. The trailer’s opening scenes perfectly capture the modern reality of parental interactions over FaceTime, setting a humorous yet poignant tone right from the start. We meet Chris (Bradley), a recently separated father eager to re-enter the dating world. As he navigates the murky waters of online dating, he encounters a profile that captivates him—albeit the woman behind the photo is a seductive entity with ulterior motives.
As Chris swipes right based solely on alluring body shots, viewers quickly grasp the impending danger. The film cleverly underscores the peril of being blinded by beauty when, during their video chat, Chris indulges in the bizarre request from the mysterious woman to kiss the screen—an obvious red flag that he overlooks. His skepticism falters as he receives an ominous call from Dr. Zephyr (Perlman), a character who tries to warn him about the risks of engaging with this enchanting stranger. However, Chris dismisses the warning from the seemingly random man, highlighting the often misguided trust we place in alluring profiles versus the warnings of strangers.
Once ensnared by the succubus, Chris finds his life spiraling into chaos, trapped within the confines of his home, as his very essence comes under her alluring grasp. This unsettling premise not only serves as entertainment but also as a pointed commentary on caution in the digital age, where attractive facades can hide sinister realities.
Who Directed Succubus?
Succubus is helmed by R.J. Daniel Hanna, who not only directed but also penned the compelling script. Hanna has proven his versatility in filmmaking, previously bending genres with projects like Hard Miles and Miss Virginia. With Succubus, he weaves together themes of horror and humor, inviting audiences to laugh while also eliciting fear—a signature style that has garnered him recognition in the film community.
Shout! Studios has been on a roll, releasing a bevy of engaging titles over the past year. Among these are The Dead Don’t Hurt, a poignant drama written and directed by and starring Viggo Mortensen, and the light-hearted comedy Drugstore June featuring Esther Povitsky and Bobby Lee. As part of their expanding portfolio in the thriller genre, Succubus is set to join another suspenseful offering from the studio: The Wasp, which will be buzzing onto screens later this month.
Mark your calendars! The official trailer for Succubus is already generating buzz, and fans can look forward to experiencing this blend of horror and dark comedy from the comfort of their homes when it releases on digital and DVD on September 24. Whether you’re a horror aficionado or someone who enjoys a good laugh with a side of chills, Succubus promises to be a captivating experience that warns about the darker side of desire while entertaining its audience.
In a world saturated with superficial connections, Succubus invites viewers to reflect on their own dating experiences, highlighting the importance of intuition and the often overlooked wisdom of those who might appear less appealing at first glance. As we navigate the complexities of modern relationships, this film serves not just as horror entertainment but as a reminder that true monsters often lurk beneath the surface. So, prepare for a night of thrilling twists, unexpected scares, and laughs as you delve into the chilling world of Shout! Studios’ Succubus.