Hollywood, CA – [Date of Publication] – A compelling new independent horror film, tentatively titled The Things We Hide, is set to feature a notable cast including Lil Rel Howery, known for his breakout performance in Jordan Peele’s acclaimed Get Out, alongside Angela Sarafyan of HBO’s Westworld and Manny Montana, recognized for his role in the popular series Good Girls. The project is co-directed and produced by Amir Noorani and Eric Bergemann, with initial reports surfacing from Variety.
The film’s narrative promises a deep dive into psychological turmoil and the fragility of relationships. It centers on Naomi and Logan, a couple who seek refuge in a secluded farmhouse following a severe psychological breakdown that has pushed their marriage to the brink of collapse. The synopsis suggests a descent into a nightmarish landscape where the boundaries between severe trauma, pervasive paranoia, and the genuinely supernatural begin to dissolve, leaving the protagonists and the audience in a state of unsettling ambiguity. This premise positions The Things We Hide within a subgenre of horror that often resonates with contemporary audiences, exploring themes of mental health, marital strain, and the unsettling nature of the unknown, all within a potentially isolated and claustrophobic setting.
Directorial Vision and Artistic Ambition
Directors Amir Noorani and Eric Bergemann have articulated a clear artistic vision for The Things We Hide, emphasizing its layered, intimate, and psychologically ambiguous nature. Their statement suggests a deliberate approach to filmmaking, where every visual element is intended to provoke thought and question perception. "A story where every visual choice is intentional, constantly inviting audiences to question what is real, what is perceived and what may be influencing these characters," the co-directors stated. This approach hints at a film that prioritizes atmosphere, character interiority, and a narrative that actively engages the viewer’s intellect and sense of unease, rather than relying solely on overt scares. Such a directorial philosophy can often lead to films that linger in the mind long after the credits roll, fostering critical discussion and a deeper connection with the subject matter.
International Sales and Market Presence
Adding significant weight to the film’s potential, Italy’s Minerva Pictures has officially boarded The Things We Hide. This collaboration signals a strong belief in the project’s commercial and artistic viability on a global scale. Minerva Pictures, a seasoned player in the international film market, will be launching the world sales for the thriller at the prestigious Cannes Market. The Cannes Film Market is a critical juncture for independent filmmakers and distributors, offering unparalleled access to global buyers and industry professionals. Minerva’s involvement underscores the film’s promise to captivate diverse international audiences, suggesting that its themes and execution are expected to transcend cultural boundaries. This strategic partnership is a testament to the film’s potential to secure widespread distribution and critical attention.
Production Details and Creative Team
Atit Shah’s Create Entertainment, known for its involvement in projects such as Monsoon and Forgive Don’t Forget, is serving as the lead production company for The Things We Hide. This association with a reputable independent production house further bolsters the film’s credibility. Principal photography for the project has recently commenced in New York, a location that can offer a diverse range of visual aesthetics, from urban grit to potentially secluded rural settings, depending on the specific needs of the narrative. The early commencement of filming indicates a focused and efficient production schedule, aiming to bring the directors’ vision to fruition promptly.
Monica Ciarli of Minerva Pictures expressed considerable optimism about the film’s prospects, highlighting its strong foundation. "A psychological thriller with all the ingredients to captivate international audiences: a gripping concept, a distinctive directorial vision, and an exceptional cast and creative team behind it," Ciarli remarked. This endorsement from a key international sales agent speaks volumes about the perceived quality and marketability of The Things We Hide. The confluence of a compelling concept, a unique directorial approach, and a talented cast and crew is precisely the recipe for success in the competitive landscape of independent cinema.
Cast and Character Potential
The casting of Lil Rel Howery, Angela Sarafyan, and Manny Montana is particularly noteworthy. Howery’s nuanced performance in Get Out demonstrated his ability to blend comedic timing with genuine dramatic weight, making him a compelling choice for a role that likely requires him to navigate complex emotional territory. His presence can also attract a wider audience, drawing viewers familiar with his established comedic persona and eager to see him in a more intense, dramatic, and potentially terrifying role.
Angela Sarafyan, with her extensive experience in playing multifaceted and often enigmatic characters in Westworld, is well-suited to portray the psychological complexities inherent in a character experiencing a breakdown and grappling with supernatural or perceived supernatural events. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously will be crucial in grounding the film’s more abstract or unsettling elements.
Manny Montana has garnered significant attention for his charismatic and often intense portrayals, particularly in Good Girls. His inclusion suggests a character who might bring a different dynamic to the couple’s struggle, perhaps representing a force of resistance, a catalyst for further conflict, or a source of support in the face of escalating terror. The interplay between these three actors is anticipated to be a significant draw for both audiences and critics.
Genre Context and Industry Trends
The Things We Hide enters the independent horror market at a time when psychological thrillers and elevated horror films continue to gain significant traction. Following the success of titles that blend genre conventions with deeper thematic explorations, such as Hereditary, Midsommar, and The Babadook, audiences are increasingly receptive to horror films that prioritize atmosphere, character development, and intellectual engagement over gratuitous gore. The film’s emphasis on psychological ambiguity and the blurring of reality and perception aligns perfectly with this trend, suggesting that the filmmakers are attuned to contemporary audience preferences.
The indie horror scene has become a fertile ground for innovative storytelling and groundbreaking talent. Films that emerge from this sector often benefit from creative freedom, allowing directors to explore more daring and unconventional narratives. The success of Get Out, a film that masterfully blended horror with social commentary, has paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers and actors to tackle complex themes within the genre. Lil Rel Howery’s involvement is a direct beneficiary of this shift, showcasing his versatility beyond his initial breakout role.
Future Implications and Market Reception
The world sales launch at Cannes will be a crucial indicator of the film’s international appeal and potential for broad distribution. The reception from buyers and critics at such a high-profile event will shape its trajectory and determine its accessibility to audiences worldwide. Minerva Pictures’ confidence, coupled with the strong cast and intriguing premise, suggests that The Things We Hide is positioned to make a significant impact.
The film’s success could also further solidify the careers of co-directors Amir Noorani and Eric Bergemann, potentially opening doors to larger projects and greater creative control. For Create Entertainment, it represents another opportunity to add a critically and commercially viable project to their portfolio. The early stages of production in New York provide a tangible starting point, and the ongoing updates from the set will be closely watched by industry observers.
As principal photography progresses, further details regarding the film’s specific thematic concerns, the nuances of its supernatural elements, and the full scope of its psychological exploration are expected to emerge. The anticipation surrounding The Things We Hide is palpable, driven by its promising cast, ambitious directorial vision, and strategic international backing. Its journey from the production floor to global distribution will be a closely observed narrative in the independent film world. The film’s success will not only be measured by its box office performance but also by its ability to provoke thought, discussion, and a lasting sense of unease, fulfilling the promise of a truly engaging psychological horror experience. The integration of established actors like Howery and Sarafyan alongside rising talents like Montana, within a narrative framework that challenges conventional horror tropes, positions The Things We Hide as a project with significant potential to both entertain and resonate deeply with audiences.
