David F. Sandberg discusses his practical special effects approach
Director David F. Sandberg, known for his work on “Lights Out” and “Annabelle: Creation,” is currently working on a film adaptation of the horror video game “Until Dawn.” The production of this film began in August and wrapped up in October, with a theatrical release scheduled for April 25, 2025. Sandberg recently released an insightful 8-minute and 29-second video discussing his approach to practical special effects in the movie.
“Until Dawn,” originally released in 2015, is a popular interactive horror video game that follows the story of eight friends and frenemies at a remote mountain retreat. The game involves life or death scenarios with a mysterious killer, cannibalistic wendigos, a cable car, and a mining cave-in from the past. It received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, surprising both critics and gamers alike.
While Sandberg and screenwriter Gary Dauberman have not disclosed specific details of the movie adaptation, the project is described as an “R-rated love letter to the horror genre” with a focus on an ensemble cast. The film centers on Clover, a young woman who, along with her friends, visits a remote cabin after her sister Melanie goes missing. Dauberman’s script has been rewritten based on a previous draft by Blair Butler, known for writing the vampire movie “The Invitation.”
“Until Dawn” is being produced under Sony’s Screen Gems, as part of a strategy to revitalize the label and focus on horror content. Dauberman, along with Sandberg and Lotta Losten, is producing the film through their company Mångata shingle. Roy Lee of Vertigo Entertainment, alongside PlayStation Productions’ Asad Qizilbash and Carter Swan, are also on board as producers for the project. Ashley Brucks and Michael Bitar are overseeing the film for Screen Gems.
The movie boasts a talented cast, including Ella Rubin, Odessa A’zion, Michael Cimino, Ji-young Yoo, Belmont Cameli, Maia Mitchell, and Peter Stormare reprising his role from the video game. With an exciting team behind the scenes and a promising cast, “Until Dawn” is set to bring the horror genre to life on the big screen.
Excitement for “Until Dawn” is growing as fans eagerly anticipate its release. Sandberg’s focus on practical special effects promises a visually stunning and immersive horror experience for audiences. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated film, as it promises to deliver a thrilling and chilling experience for horror enthusiasts everywhere.