Osgood Perkins' 'The Young People' Lands an Incredible All-Star Cast for Its Mysterious 2026 Release

Osgood Perkins is a name synonymous with atmospheric, unsettling horror, and he's been on an absolute tear lately. His latest project, the super secretive "The Young People," just got even more exciting with a stacked cast announcement, and we're here to break down all the spine-tingling details about this upcoming 2026 flick from NEON!

TL;DR

• Osgood Perkins' next horror film, "The Young People," is officially filming in Vancouver, set for a 2026 theatrical release.
• The cast features a fantastic mix of talent, including Tatiana Maslany, Johnny Knoxville, Heather Graham, Lola Tung, and Nico Parker.
• While plot details are under tight wraps, clues like "a bad trip" and references to "The Old Ones" strongly hint at a Lovecraftian, psychological horror experience.

Osgood Perkins' Latest Shocker: "The Young People" Gets an A-List Upgrade from NEON

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the horror genre, you know Osgood Perkins is having a moment – actually, he’s having a whole era. After delivering the mind-bending "Longlegs" earlier this year and following up with the darkly comedic Stephen King adaptation "The Monkey," Perkins isn't just resting on his laurels. His next film, "Keeper," which also stars the brilliant Tatiana Maslany, is set to hit theaters nationwide on November 14th. And get this: he’s already elbow-deep in production on another terrifying vision: a mysterious new horror movie titled "The Young People."

This rapid-fire output, all in partnership with the indie darlings at NEON, speaks volumes about Perkins’ creative energy and the studio’s confidence in his unique brand of horror. It’s clear they’ve found a winning formula, and we, as fans, are absolutely here for it. This isn't just about making Movies; it's about crafting experiences that stick with you long after the credits roll, and "The Young People" promises to continue that tradition with an unexpectedly star-studded ensemble.

Who's Joining the Creepy Fun? Unveiling the Star-Studded Cast of "The Young People"

The cast for "The Young People" is shaping up to be truly phenomenal, blending rising stars with seasoned veterans. We already knew that the incredibly talented Lola Tung ("The Summer I Turned Pretty") and Nico Parker ("The Last of Us") were on board, bringing youthful energy and proven dramatic chops to the project. But NEON and director Osgood Perkins have just revealed a wave of exciting new additions that solidify this as one of 2026's most anticipated horror films:

• Tatiana Maslany: A Powerhouse Reunion. Returning to work with Perkins after her roles in "The Monkey" and the upcoming "Keeper," Maslany is a phenomenal actress known for her incredible versatility. From her Emmy-winning work on "Orphan Black" where she played multiple distinct characters, to her recent turn as Jennifer Walters in Marvel's "She-Hulk: Attorney at Law," she brings immense depth and intensity to every role. Her continued collaboration with Perkins is a huge vote of confidence in his vision and suggests a meaty, challenging role awaits her in "The Young People."
• Brendan Hines: Familiar Faces from TV. Known for his extensive television work, including roles in "Lie to Me," the quirky superhero series "The Tick," and the supernatural drama "Locke & Key," Hines has a knack for complex characters. It will be interesting to see him step into Perkins' distinct horror world.
• Cush Jumbo: Acclaimed Dramatic Presence. A highly respected actress, Jumbo gained widespread recognition for her powerful performances in "The Good Wife" and its spin-off, "The Good Fight." Her dramatic weight could ground "The Young People" in a very human, albeit terrifying, reality.
• Heather Graham: A Horror & Cult Classic Veteran. Graham is an iconic figure in film, with memorable roles like Annie Blackburn in David Lynch’s "Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me" and Brandy/Rollergirl in the cult classic "Boogie Nights." She recently co-starred with Nicolas Cage in the Western "Gunslingers," proving her range is as wide as her filmography. Her return to genre work with Perkins is incredibly exciting.
• Johnny Knoxville: Unexpected (and Exciting) Mayhem. This is perhaps the most intriguing addition! Best known as the fearless ringleader of the "Jackass" franchise, Knoxville is synonymous with outrageous stunts and dark comedy. His presence here could mean several things: is he bringing a darkly comedic edge to the horror, or is he playing completely against type in a deeply unsettling role? Either way, it ensures "The Young People" will have an unpredictable element that only Knoxville can provide.
• Lexi Minetree: A Rising Star. An up-and-coming talent, Minetree is already set to take on the iconic role of Elle Woods in the upcoming "Legally Blonde" prequel series. Her presence alongside more established names signals a commitment to fresh talent within the ensemble.
• Lily Collias: Indie Darling on the Rise. Having appeared in critically acclaimed independent films like "Palm Trees and Power Lines" (2022), "Good One" (2024), and "Roofman" (2025), Collias brings a nuanced, independent film sensibility to the cast.

This truly diverse and talented group suggests "The Young People" won’t be a one-note horror film. With such varied backgrounds, the actors could be tasked with exploring complex psychological themes or reacting to extraordinary, terrifying circumstances in ways only they can. Production is currently well underway in Vancouver, so these fantastic performers are already deep into bringing Perkins’ chilling narrative to life.

Decoding the Mystery: Cryptic Plot Hints, "Bad Trips," and Lovecraftian Whisperings for "The Young People"

Now, for the part that always drives horror fans wild: what is "The Young People" actually about? In typical Osgood Perkins fashion, plot details are being guarded more tightly than the secrets of a haunted mansion. However, NEON, the distributor, has thrown us a few tantalizing breadcrumbs that paint a very specific, and deeply unsettling, picture.

The most prominent hint comes directly from NEON, who has cryptically described the project as "a bad trip by Osgood Perkins." This isn't just a casual descriptor; it immediately evokes a sense of psychological distortion, hallucinatory terror, and a descent into a distorted reality. We’re thinking less about external monsters and more about the horror that can unfold within the mind, or a world that has fundamentally shifted into something unrecognizable and terrifying. Perkins excels at this kind of slow-burn, atmospheric dread, so a "bad trip" narrative aligns perfectly with his established style.

Further fueling our speculation is a tiny but significant detail from a script image NEON shared. While most of the page was hidden, one line peeked out from page 76, chillingly stating: "One of The Old Ones steps forward, drops its robe to reveal — its naked body..." For any horror aficionado, "The Old Ones" is an unmistakable siren call to the realm of H.P. Lovecraft. This directly implies a venture into cosmic horror, a subgenre where humanity is insignificant, ancient, unfathomable entities lurk beyond comprehension, and the true horror lies in the realization of our own cosmic irrelevance and the vast, uncaring universe. This approach is less about jump scares and more about existential terror and creeping madness, a playground Perkins navigates with masterful precision.

And let's not forget the first-look image released by NEON. It features Lola Tung leaning over a bathtub that appears to be filled to the brim with blood. The setting is a stark, almost sterile white room with unusual scalloped cleanings and a single, small round window. This visual is loaded with potential symbolism. Is it a scene of brutal violence, a ritualistic act, or a nightmarish hallucination? The contrast between the pristine, almost clinical environment and the shocking amount of blood creates an immediate sense of unease. Combined with the "bad trip" and "Old Ones" hints, it strongly suggests a film that will delve into themes of innocence lost, ritualistic horror, and perhaps a violent awakening to an ancient, malevolent truth. Whatever the specifics, Perkins seems poised to deliver another truly original and profoundly disturbing horror experience.

Osgood Perkins: A Modern Horror Maestro on an Unstoppable Streak with NEON

Osgood Perkins’ career trajectory, particularly over the last few years, has been nothing short of astonishing. He’s transitioned from a critically acclaimed indie horror director to a prolific and commercially successful auteur, largely thanks to his fruitful partnership with NEON. Their first-look deal with Perkins and his production banner Phobos has proven to be a masterstroke, allowing him to consistently bring his unique visions to the big screen.

Let's take a quick look at his recent track record, demonstrating his remarkable pace and success:

• The Blackcoat's Daughter (2015): This film marked his striking directorial debut, a chilling slow-burn that established his atmospheric style and earned him critical acclaim.
• I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House (2016): Another atmospheric ghost story that further solidified his distinct voice in the genre.
• Gretel & Hansel (2020): A visually stunning and dark re-imagining of the classic fairy tale, showcasing his ability to craft unsettling aesthetics.
• Longlegs (2024): This film was a game-changer. A terrifying descent into demonic serial killer horror, it not only captivated audiences but also became the highest-grossing independent film of 2024, raking in an impressive $75 million domestically. Its unique marketing campaign and genuinely disturbing tone made it a cultural phenomenon.
• The Monkey (2025): A bold and successful adaptation of Stephen King’s work, allowing Perkins to explore the tricky comedy-horror subgenre. It proved to be another commercial success for NEON, generating over $68 million from an $11 million budget and becoming the studio’s second-biggest opening weekend.
• Keeper (November 14): His latest completed film, starring Tatiana Maslany, is just days away from its theatrical debut. Early glimpses promise another intense, supernatural thriller that builds on the collaborative trust between Perkins and Maslany.

To have "Longlegs," "The Monkey," and "Keeper" all released in such close succession, with "The Young People" already deep in production for 2026, is a testament to Perkins’ incredible work ethic and his ability to consistently deliver original, high-quality horror. In an industry often dominated by sequels and reboots, Perkins and NEON are proving that distinctive, unsettling storytelling can still cut through and captivate audiences and critics alike. They're not just making movies; they're crafting a new wave of essential horror cinema.

Mark Your Calendars: When and Where to Catch "The Young People"

With production now fully underway in Vancouver, "The Young People" is steadily moving towards its highly anticipated release. NEON, true to their commitment to theatrical experiences, will be releasing the film in cinemas across the U.S. in 2026. While we don't have an exact date yet, knowing it's coming to the big screen gives us plenty to look forward to!

Given Perkins' track record and the stellar cast he’s assembled, "The Young People" is shaping up to be a must-see for anyone who appreciates intelligent, unsettling, and original horror. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates from NEON as they slowly unveil more details about this mysterious and exciting new project!

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Osgood Perkins' "The Young People"

When is Osgood Perkins' "The Young People" being released in theaters? "The Young People" is currently scheduled for a theatrical release in 2026. A specific release date within that year has not yet been announced by NEON. Who is directing and writing "The Young People"? The film is both directed and written by Osgood Perkins, who has become a prominent name in horror with recent hits like "Longlegs" and "The Monkey." Who are some of the main cast members confirmed for "The Young People"? The impressive ensemble cast includes Lola Tung, Nico Parker, Tatiana Maslany, Brendan Hines, Cush Jumbo, Heather Graham, Johnny Knoxville, Lexi Minetree, and Lily Collias. What is the plot of "The Young People" about, and what genre is it? Plot details are being kept secret. However, NEON has described it as "a bad trip," and a leaked script line referenced "The Old Ones," strongly suggesting it will be a Lovecraftian, psychological horror film. A first-look image also hints at dark and possibly ritualistic themes with a blood-filled bathtub. Which studio is distributing "The Young People"? NEON, known for its successful collaborations with Osgood Perkins on "Longlegs" and "The Monkey," will be releasing "The Young People" theatrically in the U.S. Sources

• Based on provided articles from Bloody Disgusting, Deadline, ComingSoon.net, MovieWeb, Screen Anarchy, GamesRadar+, and Punch Drunk Critics.