Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe to Star in Shudder Thriller 'River'

Horror fans, prepare yourselves. Jane Levy (Evil Dead) and Jessica Rothe (Happy Death Day) are teaming up for River, a new slasher thriller set to debut on Shudder with a simultaneous theatrical release. The film marks the feature directorial debut of Joshua Giuliano.

A River Runs Red

River centers on three estranged siblings who reunite in their hometown following the death of their father. They embark on a journey to scatter his ashes at his favorite spot on a remote river. However, their trip takes a dark turn when their boat breaks down, leaving them stranded and without cell service. As night falls, they realize they are being stalked by a faceless killer who emerges from the surrounding woods. The siblings must overcome their long-standing grudges and fight together to survive the night against a relentless and terrifying threat.

Shudder's Confidence Boost

Shudder's decision to partner with Independent Film Company for a theatrical release signals a strong belief in River's potential to draw audiences beyond the streaming platform. This move reflects a growing trend of streaming services recognizing the value of theatrical releases for certain projects, particularly within the horror genre.

Giuliano's Vision Comes to Life

"'River' was six years in the making, a labor of love that culminated in the most rewarding experience of my life," Giuliano said in a statement. "Working with Shudder has been a thrilling collaboration, and knowing 'River' will have a theatrical release is a dream come true. I look forward to sharing our terrifying creation with audiences."

Horror Royalty Collide

The film also stars Max Mattern (Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy) and Dane DiLiegro (Prey), adding further depth to the cast. The pairing of Levy and Rothe, both established figures in modern horror, is a significant draw for genre enthusiasts. Their previous roles in successful horror franchises have solidified their appeal and built a dedicated fanbase.

Industry Perspective

Dr. Anya Sharma, a film studies professor specializing in horror cinema at the University of Southern California, notes the strategic importance of casting Levy and Rothe. "Levy and Rothe represent a new wave of horror actresses who bring both vulnerability and strength to their roles. Casting them together is a smart move, as it taps into the existing fanbases and creates a synergistic effect. Shudder understands its audience and is delivering exactly what they want: a fresh take on the slasher genre with proven talent."

The Evolution of Shudder

Shudder has become a prominent force in the horror streaming landscape, consistently delivering original films and acquiring established titles. Its commitment to the genre and willingness to take risks have earned it a loyal following. The theatrical release of River underscores Shudder's ambition to not only dominate the streaming market but also to make a mark in the traditional film distribution model.

The Future of Horror

The horror genre continues to thrive, fueled by innovative storytelling and a dedicated audience. The success of films like Happy Death Day and the resurgence of classic franchises like Evil Dead demonstrate the enduring appeal of horror. River aims to contribute to this legacy, offering a blend of suspense, terror, and compelling performances.

Release Details

River is currently in post-production. Release dates for both the Shudder streaming debut and the theatrical release are yet to be announced. Stay tuned to Movie for updates as they become available.