Horror Thriller 'Hellcat' Sells to Shudder for North America

Variety

by Naman Ramachandran

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Shudder has acquired North American rights to *Hellcat*, a psychological horror thriller marking the feature debut of director Brock Bodell. The film was picked up by Blue Finch Films at the Berlin International Film Market and is set for release later this year following its premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival, where it received strong critical acclaim. This acquisition highlights Shudder's ongoing expansion in the horror genre, with plans to add approximately 30 new films annually. *Hellcat* follows a woman named Lena (played by Dakota Gorman) who awakens in a moving camper trailer with a severe injury and just one hour to reach medical help before her condition worsens. As her reality blurs, the film builds tension around the question of who—or what—is the real threat. The cast includes notable actors like Todd Terry, Liz Atwater, Jordan Mullins, and James Austin Johnson in a voice role. Blue Finch Films has also secured international distribution deals, with Meteor Film handling Germany and Falcon Films covering the MENA region, while managing releases in the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand themselves. The film's acquisition by Shudder underscores its growing reputation for delivering high-quality horror content to global audiences. The story of *Hellcat* centers on Lena, a woman with a life-threatening injury who must navigate a harrowing journey to survive. As her condition deteriorates, her grip on reality weakens, creating a suspenseful atmosphere where the line between imagination and reality becomes increasingly blurred. The film's premise is both intense and psychological, exploring themes of fear, isolation, and the unknown. This approach has already garnered attention from critics, with its premiere at Fantasia signaling its potential as a standout in the horror genre. Shudder's acquisition of *Hellcat* further solidifies its position as a key player in the streaming space for horror enthusiasts. The platform continues to expand its content library, offering fans a diverse range of films that cater to their cravings for thrills and chills. With plans to release approximately 30 new titles each year, Shudder is proving itself a reliable destination for both established and emerging filmmakers in the horror genre. This strategy not only benefits viewers but also supports independent creators like Brock Bodell, who made his feature debut with *Hellcat*, following his earlier recognition for his short film *

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Originally published on Variety on 2/15/2026