Get ready to sleep with the lights on! Vantage Media has just snatched up the U.S. rights to the bone-chilling film, "The Calling Witch," a deal sealed at this year's American Film Market. This one's set to be a wild ride!
Directed by Mark Wilson and penned by Chris Rett, the movie dives headfirst into the terrifying world of a children's book boogeyman. We're talking about a sinister witch who, according to the story, lures kids into the woods for a rather unpleasant snack. But here's where it gets controversial... When the author of this spooky tale kicks the bucket, the witch seems to jump off the pages and into reality, setting her sights on the author's own children. Talk about a plot twist! Trapped in their isolated family home, the siblings must fight for their lives and unravel the dark secrets behind their mother's creation.
The film's production team includes Rett, Wilson, Jesse Bontreger, and Alex Swickard.
The deal was orchestrated by Jessica Russo, the COO of Vantage Media, and Elisabeth Costa de Beauregard Segel, the President of Storyboard Media, representing the filmmakers.
"'The Calling Witch' is a chilling homage to classic folklore and ghost stories passed down through generations—tales like La Llorona that warned of spirits luring the innocent," Russo shared, hinting at the film's inspiration. "This film embraces that timeless atmosphere steeped in mystery and unease. It builds tension through mood, performance, and story, delivering a truly unsettling experience that will haunt audiences long after the credits roll."
"We're thrilled to partner again with VMI/Vantage following our first collaboration on the Vince Vaughn, Clark Duke & Liam Hemsworth starrer 'Arkansas' in 2020," added Costa de Beauregard Segel. "Given their proven success with genre films, including 'Popeye the Slayer Man,' we're confident The Calling Witch will be another strong success on their slate."
Vantage Media is aiming for a Q1 2026 release.
So, what do you think? Does this sound like your kind of horror flick? Will it live up to the hype? Let me know in the comments if you're excited or if you think the premise is a bit overdone. I'm eager to hear your thoughts!
