Neon has secured the exclusive U.S. distribution rights for "Hell of a Summer," a hilarious horror masterpiece helmed by the dynamic duo of Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk. This edgy comedy-thriller, which made its debut with a bang at the 2023 Toronto Film Festival, promises to redefine the genre.
Wolfhard, the heartthrob from Netflix's beloved "Stranger Things," and Bryk, a standout in the indie drama "When You Finish Saving the World," have collaborated not just as directors but also as lead actors, marking their feature film directorial debut with panache. Joining them on this wild ride is Fred Hechinger, a veteran of films like "Thelma" and the highly anticipated "Gladiator 2," rounding out an ensemble that's sure to captivate audiences.
Although a precise release date remains under wraps, Neon has strategically slotted "Hell of a Summer" for a theatrical release in 2025, whetting the appetites of horror and comedy enthusiasts alike.
The film unfolds as a team of counselors frantically prepares Camp Pineway for the arrival of eager campers, only to be plunged into a nightmare when a masked murderer begins ruthlessly picking off staff members. Wolfhard and Bryk have confessed that their script was penned with a mission to shatter stereotypes surrounding Generation Z, aiming to portray them in a fresh, authentic light.
As Wolfhard shared with Variety at last year's TIFF, "Our constant gripe was how tedious it gets to watch new teen films that misrepresent our age group. So, we thought, 'Why not take matters into our own hands?'"
"Hell of a Summer" boasts full financial backing and executive production from 30West, with Fred Hechinger, Michael Costigan of Aggregate Films, Jason Bateman, Drew Brennan, and Jay Van Hoy of Parts & Labor lending their producing prowess. The acquisition deal was skillfully negotiated by Jason Wald on behalf of Neon, with 30West and CAA Media Finance at the negotiating table.
Neon's recent slate has been nothing short of impressive, including the global horror sensation "Longlegs," which has amassed a staggering $100 million worldwide, as well as enigmatic thrillers like "Cuckoo" starring Hunter Schafer and Dan Stevens, and the religiously twisted "Immaculate," led by Sydney Sweeney. Upcoming, the indie giant is set to unveil Joshua Oppenheimer's opulent musical "The End," featuring Tilda Swinton, and Sean Baker's Cannes Palme d'Or-winning masterpiece "Anora," further solidifying its reputation as a tastemaker in the world of cinema.
