Last Updated on August 5, 2021
Back in May of 2012 we shared the news that FilmDistrict had scooped up the U.S. distribution rights to Mike Flanagan's haunted mirror tale OCULUS during the 2012 Cannes Film Market, several months before Flanagan had even started shooting. Now The Hollywood Reporter has announced that FilmDistrict will no longer be releasing the film, quietly dropping OCULUS just ahead of its Midnight Madness World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Starring Karen Gillan, Katee Sackhoff, Brenton Thwaites, Rory Cochrane, Annalise Basso, and Garrett Ryan, OCULUS…
…is a spine-chilling supernatural tale of two damaged siblings (Gillan and Thwaites) who, as children, witnessed their parents’ harrowing descent into madness and murder. At long last, brother and sister reunite as adults to expose and destroy the paranormal entity they believe is responsible: the Lasser Glass — a legendary mirror their family once owned.”
The Hollywood Reporter goes on to say that the filmmakers had the option to shop the movie to other buyers under certain circumstances, and that Intrepid Pictures, who produced and financed OCULUS, wants the film to open nationwide, while FilmDistrict was planning a platform release (meaning direct-to-VOD). Both sides say the parting of ways was amicable, and that FilmDistrict’s Peter Schlessel’s assistance was invaluable during the making of OCULUS. Further, FilmDistrict could still give the film some sort of release if another buyer doesn't buy up the domestic rights.
Hopefully OCULUS finds a home that will allow the film to reach the widest possible audience as it sounds like it could be a creepy good time. We'll keep you posted on news regarding the film as it comes in.
Follow the JOBLO MOVIE NETWORK
Follow us on YOUTUBE
Follow ARROW IN THE HEAD
Follow AITH on YOUTUBE