YA horror Bad Influence stars Xochitl Gomez, Madeleine McGraw, and Jack Champion
The casting call for the next big YA horror feature has delivered a cast loaded with talent, bringing a dose of cinematic angst and undeniable star power to the screen. Xochitl Gomez, Madeleine McGraw, and Jack Champion are joining forces in the upcoming film Bad Influence.
This new project promises to be a visceral exploration of female rage, positioned as a modern-day narrative reminiscent of the classic story of Thelma & Louise. The story centers on Isabelle and Kira, two young women embarking on a road trip home for spring break. Their journey takes a sharp, dangerous turn when they encounter a mysterious hitchhiker named Liam, whose true nature threatens to derail their carefree adventure entirely.
The creative vision behind the film is helmed by director Jason Perlman, known for his work on Royal Crush, and screenwriter Brandon Cohen, whose writing pedigree includes films like Just Roll with It. This pairing suggests a story rich in both high-stakes drama and sharp, compelling dialogue.
The ensemble cast brings significant recognition to the project. Xochitl Gomez is already celebrated for her roles in major franchises, including Marvel’s Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and she has also graced the screen in projects like Netflix’s The Baby-Sitters Club and Dancing with the Stars. Her experience lends an immediate depth to the character Gomez portrays.
Madeleine McGraw brings her own range, having recently reprised her role as Gwen Blake in Black Phone 2, alongside credits in popular films such as American Sniper and Cars 3. Her involvement signals a commitment to compelling, character-driven storytelling.
Rounding out the trio is Jack Champion, a veteran actor known for his versatility, having played Spider in the Avatar franchise and appearing in films like Scream VI and the Netflix release Don’t Say Good Luck. Champion’s presence promises a dynamic energy to the narrative.
The production of Bad Influence is managed by producers Debbie Liebling, Joel David Moore, and Zachary Burgess, with executive producers including Steven Silverstein, Cathy Raduns, Raymond Merrill, and others. The team is bringing together a unique mix of talent to tackle a story that promises to be both thrilling and deeply personal.