Scream Queens Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe Dive into New Slasher Film 'River'

Two of modern horror's most beloved "scream queens," Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe, are teaming up for Shudder's new survival slasher, 'River,' which is also gearing up for a theatrical release before hitting the streaming service.

TL;DR

• Jane Levy ('Evil Dead') and Jessica Rothe ('Happy Death Day') star in 'River,' a new survival slasher from first-time feature director Joshua Giuliano.
• The Shudder Original film is currently in post-production and will get a theatrical release via Independent Film Company, expected in 2026, before streaming.
• The movie follows three estranged siblings on a remote river trip that turns into a terrifying fight for survival against a mysterious, faceless killer.

Imagine the unsettling quiet of a remote river, far from any signal, where your boat decides to give up. Now, picture a faceless killer emerging from the dark woods, turning your solemn family reunion into a desperate fight for survival. Sounds like a textbook horror setup, right? But here's the twist: this isn't just any slasher. This is 'River,' a new Shudder Original that’s uniting two of modern horror's most iconic "scream queens," Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe, for a terrifying adventure.

What makes this news even more thrilling for genre fans is Shudder's bold move: 'River' isn't just heading straight to streaming. It's getting a full theatrical release before it graces your screens at home. This strategic play speaks volumes about the film's potential to deliver genuine chills and thrills, signaling that this isn't one to miss.

Witnessing the Electrifying Collaboration of Two Modern Scream Queens

When you hear "scream queen," certain names instantly spring to mind, and for good reason. These aren't just actresses who scream effectively; they embody resilience, vulnerability, and the fierce will to survive against impossible odds. Jane Levy absolutely redefined the "final girl" in the 2013 'Evil Dead' remake, giving audiences a character whose descent into demonic possession and ultimate fight for survival was both brutally physical and emotionally harrowing. Her intense performance as Mia, a recovering addict forced to confront a supernatural evil, left an indelible mark on modern horror. Source: [Variety, "Scream Queens Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe Team for Slasher ‘River’ as Shudder Original Sets Theatrical Release", November 5, 2025].

Jessica Rothe, on the other hand, brought a unique blend of sharp wit, genuine charm, and incredible tenacity to her role as Tree Gelbman in the 'Happy Death Day' films. Her character's journey from self-absorbed sorority girl to a capable, empathetic survivor, repeatedly dying and resurrecting, proved that a "scream queen" could also carry a film with comedic timing and profound character growth. Her ability to navigate both horror and humor effortlessly makes her a fan favorite. To see these two powerhouses — one known for raw, visceral terror, the other for clever, resilient survival — share the screen in 'River' is a truly exciting prospect, promising dynamic performances and a compelling on-screen chemistry.

Exploring the Chilling Narrative and Vision of a Bold New Director

The core premise of 'River' taps into primal fears: isolation, natural dangers, and the unknown lurking in the wilderness. The story begins with three estranged siblings reuniting after their father's death, embarking on a solemn journey to scatter his ashes at a beloved remote river spot. This setting alone offers fertile ground for tension, as unresolved family conflicts are forced to the surface in a vulnerable environment. But when their boat breaks down, cutting them off from any help and cellular reception, their emotional journey transforms into a literal fight for their lives against a "faceless killer who has emerged from the woods," described as an "almost mythic terror."

Guiding this terrifying narrative is Joshua Giuliano, making his feature film directorial debut. Giuliano's personal background hints at a unique perspective on horror. Raised religious in the cornfields of Indiana, he candidly admits he was "terrified of everything." However, these early constraints and his inherent need to explore beyond his boundaries proved to be the perfect crucible for crafting deeply personal and viscerally terrifying projects. His previous short films have already earned him critical acclaim and awards at prestigious genre festivals such as Fantasia Film Festival, Fantastic Fest, and Frightfest. This pedigree suggests a filmmaker who intimately understands the mechanics of fear and how to translate it effectively onto the screen. Source: [Screen Anarchy, "RIVER: Independent Film Company and Shudder Acquire Joshua Giuliano's Debut Survival Slasher", November 5, 2025].

"'River' was six years in the making, a labor of love that culminated in the most rewarding experience of my life. Working with Shudder has been a thrilling collaboration and knowing 'River' will have a theatrical release is a dream come true. I look forward to sharing our terrifying creation with audiences."

— Joshua Giuliano, Director of 'River'

One might wonder if a first-time feature director can truly handle such a high-profile project, especially with esteemed actors and significant distribution. However, Giuliano's long-term commitment to 'River,' dedicating six years to its development, speaks volumes about his passion and meticulous approach. Moreover, the robust support system around him, including seasoned producers and Shudder's backing, provides the necessary foundation for a successful debut. This combination of fresh vision and experienced guidance often leads to some of the most exciting and innovative horror films.

Assembling an Ensemble Cast and a Seasoned Production Team for Success

The talent behind 'River' extends beyond its leading ladies. The cast also includes Dane DiLiegro, recognized for his physically imposing presence, particularly as the titular alien hunter in 'Prey.' His experience with creature performance and intense physical roles suggests he'll bring a formidable presence to 'River,' whether as a victim, a survivor, or perhaps even the killer. Max Mattern, who recently appeared in Peacock’s true-crime drama 'Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy,' further strengthens the ensemble, adding to the film’s genre pedigree.

Behind the camera, the production team boasts an impressive roster of horror veterans. Steven Schneider from Spooky Pictures, a name synonymous with successful modern horror franchises like 'Insidious' and 'Paranormal Activity,' is producing. His expertise in crafting enduring scares is undeniable. Joining him are Nick Antosca and Alex Hedlund from Eat the Cat, producers known for their work on critically acclaimed horror series such as 'Chucky,' 'Hannibal,' and the deliciously unsettling 'Brand New Cherry Flavor.' Their involvement signals a commitment to a sophisticated, character-driven approach within the horror framework. Executive producers Jeffrey and Robert Tinnell from Allegheny Image Factory and Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier from Upgrade further round out a team stacked with genre knowledge and industry experience. Source: [HorrorFuel.com, "Scream Queens Jessica Rothe and Jane Levy Starring in IFC and Shudder’s Slasher ‘River’", November 6, 2025].

"Josh is a striking new voice in horror. His simultaneously beautiful and horrifying script captivated us from page one, and it's our privilege to team up with such an immensely talented group of producers, cast and crew to bring his feature debut to life."

— Nicholas Lazo, Shudder’s Vice President of Development and Production

Understanding Shudder's Savvy Strategy: Elevating Indie Horror to Theaters

Shudder, primarily a streaming service dedicated to all things horror, has been quietly, yet powerfully, expanding its footprint into theatrical distribution. This isn't a haphazard decision; it's a strategic move to champion independent horror and give deserving films a larger platform. For years, it was rare for a Shudder exclusive to cross the $1 million mark at the box office. However, this trend has dramatically reversed. Recent releases like 2023’s viral sensation 'Skinamarink,' 2024’s critically acclaimed 'Late Night with the Devil' ($15.5 million worldwide), and 2024’s chilling 'In a Violent Nature' ($4.6 million) have all seen significant theatrical success, with 'Good Boy' (2025) also pulling in $8 million worldwide.

This approach offers a crucial pathway for independent horror to reach broader audiences and generate buzz beyond the streaming ecosystem. It allows Shudder to leverage the critical reception and communal experience of a theatrical run to build anticipation before the film eventually lands on its platform. The benefit here is twofold: it provides a vital theatrical window for films that might otherwise struggle to find one, and it elevates Shudder's brand as a curator of high-quality, event-worthy horror. While some fans might lament waiting a bit longer for 'River' to stream, the theatrical release signifies the film's perceived quality and potential impact. If 'River' can replicate the impressive box office performance of titles like 2025's 'Clown in a Cornfield,' which reportedly grossed $21.5 million against a modest $1 million budget, it will further solidify Shudder's innovative distribution model. Source: [ScreenRant, "Shudder Announces Theatrical Release For New Slasher Uniting Two Scream Queens", November 5, 2025].

The Resurgence of Slasher Cinema and 'River's Place Within It

The horror genre is currently experiencing a vibrant renaissance, characterized by both innovative "elevated horror" and a renewed appreciation for classic subgenres like the slasher. Audiences are hungry for fresh takes on familiar tropes, demanding creativity while still craving the satisfying scares that slashers deliver. While some might argue that the slasher genre can feel formulaic, 'River' offers compelling elements that could set it apart. The "almost mythic terror" mentioned in the synopsis hints at something potentially more profound or supernatural than a typical masked killer, possibly injecting a folk horror sensibility into the survival narrative.

Furthermore, the internal drama of "estranged siblings" forced to "put their long-standing grudges aside" to fight for survival adds a rich layer of psychological conflict. This isn't just about outrunning a killer; it’s about mending fractured bonds under unimaginable duress. This combination of external threat and internal struggle can elevate a slasher from simple jump scares to a more resonant, character-driven horror experience. Consider, for example, a fan who, upon seeing the 'River' trailer, immediately recognizes the blend of suspense and character depth reminiscent of some of the best modern horror. They might recall how 'You're Next' brilliantly fused home invasion with dark humor and family dysfunction, and anticipate 'River' offering a similar, albeit more intense, blend. This anticipation from a discerning audience highlights the genre's current appetite for intelligent, well-crafted scares.

'River' is shaping up to be a fascinating entry in the horror landscape. It's a film that brings together celebrated talent, a promising new directorial voice, and a distribution strategy designed to maximize its impact. For horror fans, it’s a clear signal that exciting, original, and terrifying stories are not only being told but are being given the platform they deserve. The wait for a specific release date will undoubtedly be tense, but the anticipation for this particular river trip will be worth it.

Practical Takeaways for Horror Fans Eager for 'River'

• Keep an eye on official announcements for the precise 2026 theatrical release date for 'River' from Independent Film Company, as it’s currently TBD.
• Prepare for compelling performances from genre veterans Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe, whose combined talent promises a memorable survival story.
• Anticipate a fresh take on the slasher genre, blending classic isolation fears with complex family dynamics and hints of a "mythic" antagonist.
• Consider supporting 'River' in theaters if possible, to encourage Shudder’s continued investment in theatrical releases for quality independent horror.
• Expect high production value and meticulous filmmaking, backed by an impressive roster of experienced horror producers.

Frequently Asked Questions About 'River'

When will 'River' be released? 'River' is expected to receive a theatrical release in 2026 through Independent Film Company (IFC), followed by its streaming debut on Shudder. A precise release date has not yet been announced. Where can I watch 'River'? Initially, 'River' will be available in select theaters via IFC. After its theatrical run, it will stream exclusively on Shudder for subscribers. Who are the main stars of 'River'? The film stars Jane Levy ('Evil Dead'), Jessica Rothe ('Happy Death Day'), Dane DiLiegro ('Prey'), and Max Mattern ('Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy'). What is 'River' about? The film follows three estranged siblings who reunite after their father's death to scatter his ashes. Their trip turns into a terrifying fight for survival when their boat breaks down on a remote river, leaving them stranded and stalked by a faceless, "almost mythic" killer.

Sources

• Variety, "Scream Queens Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe Team for Slasher ‘River’ as Shudder Original Sets Theatrical Release (EXCLUSIVE)", William Earl, November 5, 2025.
• ScreenRant, "Shudder Announces Theatrical Release For New Slasher Uniting Two Scream Queens", November 5, 2025.
• Screen Anarchy, "RIVER: Independent Film Company and Shudder Acquire Joshua Giuliano's Debut Survival Slasher", Andrew Mack, November 5, 2025.
• Bloody Disgusting, "Scream Queens Jessica Rothe and Jane Levy Starring in IFC and Shudder’s Slasher ‘River’", Alex DiVincenzo, November 5, 2025.
• HorrorFuel.com, "Scream Queens Jessica Rothe and Jane Levy Starring in IFC and Shudder’s Slasher ‘River’", Kelli Marchman McNeely, November 6, 2025.
• FANGORIA, "Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe Star in the Shudder Slasher Movie River", Cody Hamman, November 5, 2025.