Blumhouse and Universal discuss the River project
The River Flows: How a Duo of Scream Queens is Hunting for Theatrical Release
The buzz around the brutal slasher film River is heating up as major studios prepare to seize control of its theatrical distribution. Blumhouse and Universal Pictures are reportedly closing in on a deal valued at over $10 million to bring this intense horror story to a wider audience.
This upcoming feature is stacked with talent, featuring a dynamic pairing of acclaimed actresses. The film stars two modern scream queens: Jessica Rothe, known for her work on Happy Death Day, and Jane Levy, a veteran of horror cinema with roles in films like Don’t Breathe and Evil Dead.
The narrative centers on a deeply personal and fraught reunion. The story follows estranged sisters who must reunite with their younger brother to scatter their father’s ashes along a remote river. But their quest for peace quickly devolves into a desperate struggle for survival when their boat breaks down, leaving them stranded miles from help and relentlessly pursued by a faceless killer.
The tension escalates quickly as the siblings find themselves isolated and stalked by an unseen menace, turning a family pilgrimage into a terrifying ordeal on the water. The film delves into the psychological horror of being trapped, hunted, and forced to confront primal fear in an unforgiving wilderness.
Before hitting the big screen, River has followed an interesting path. Initially, the project was developed as a Shudder Original Production, with an independent film company handling the theatrical rollout. However, the negotiations with major studios have signaled a shift toward a larger distribution strategy.
The film’s creative direction has also seen significant movement. Joshua Giuliano has recently been brought on board to write and direct Occupant for Blumhouse and Universal’s Focus Features, adding another layer of industry connection to the project’s future.
Fans can look forward to seeing the brutal story premiere at Fantastic Fest for its U.S. debut. With the massive studio interest closing in, it seems River is ready to transition from the niche horror circuit to mainstream cinematic spectacle.
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