Don’t Move: A Thrilling Dive into Horror Awaits on Netflix
As Halloween approaches, Netflix gears up to unearth its chilling new offering, “Don’t Move,” set to premiere on October 24th, 2024. From the collaborative minds of directors Brian Netto and Adam Schindler, this film promises to deliver a hair-raising experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. We had the unique opportunity to sit down with Netto and Schindler to delve deep into their creative process, the intense themes of their story, and the challenges they faced during production.
The Genesis of “Don’t Move”
“Don’t Move” is a riveting horror thriller that begins with the story of Iris, a woman grappling with profound grief. Her fateful encounter in the woods leads to a harrowing experience where she finds herself paralyzed after being injected with a paralytic agent. In a race against time, Iris must navigate her incapacitated state to survive while her body fails her. This intriguing premise is a direct reflection of the directors’ desire to explore the realm of paralysis and its inherent psychological terror.
A Conversation with the Directors
During our conversation with Brian and Adam, Adam was quick to share the initial spark that ignited “Don’t Move.” “A few years ago, we asked ourselves if a horror film could center around a character who is paralyzed for a substantial portion of it,” he explained. This question paved the way for extensive discussions with writers T.J. Cimfel and David White, both of whom had previously collaborated with the duo on the film “Intruders.” As the pandemic loomed, the process transformed into a virtual endeavor – a convergence of creativity through screen squares as they sculpted their narrative.
Despite the global chaos, the duo noted how remarkably swiftly the project advanced once the script was solidified. Brian reminisced about how after months of brainstorming, they soon had a finalized script to present to the legendary Sam Raimi, who executive produced the project. His involvement marked a significant turning point, leading to a momentum that would propel the production forward.
Working with a Legend
Collaboration is key in the filmmaking world, and having Sam Raimi at the helm brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the project. Brian fondly spoke about learning through workshops with Raimi, noting, “His process involves diving deep into script readings, which opened the floor to critical discussions.” The directors lauded Raimi’s dedication, describing him as a cheerleader and a nuanced critic, offering invaluable insight into the emotional arcs and character-driven elements of their film.
A Unique Filming Experience in Bulgaria
The filming of “Don’t Move” took place in the wilderness of Bulgaria, presenting a unique set of challenges. Brian shared, “Weather was a dominant force, especially with many sequences set outdoors.” This unpredictability was a consistent obstacle, further complicated by the surrounding circumstances of the Writer’s Guild strikes that created limitations in adjustments during the filming process. Fortunately, their script was locked in before the strikes commenced, allowing them to continue shooting without a hitch.
Creating Authentic Performances
One of the biggest hurdles was ensuring that Kelsey Asbille, who plays Iris, accurately portrayed the struggle of losing movement and agency. Adam explained how trust was essential. Kelsey met with medical professionals to grasp the physicality of her role, ensuring each movement was authentic while also instilling confidence to focus solely on her expressive performance. “It was about creating a character whose journey resonates profoundly, despite her physical limitations,” said Adam
Moreover, the balance of dynamic storytelling required Finn Wittrock’s character to shine, portraying impulsiveness that moved the narrative forward. Brian praised Finn’s ability to deliver an understated yet powerful performance, acting with depth that enveloped audiences in empathy and tension.
The Behind the Scenes of Crafting Horror
When discussing the film’s sensory elements, the directors emphasized a deliberate choice to evoke feelings of claustrophobia within the film’s lush, open outdoor settings. The use of sound design complemented the visuals, further immersing the audience in Iris’s terrifying predicament. Brian noted the collaborative synergy between the directors and the sound team, exploring how sound transformed from enhancing the beautiful environment to provoking horror as the narrative unraveled.
What Lies Ahead for the Directors
As we wrapped up our conversation, it was evident that both directors had exciting futures ahead. They teased upcoming projects in the science fiction and thriller genres, expressing eagerness to continue collaborating with their trusted writers and producers. “We’ve got some fresh ideas brewing, and we love staying within the genre space, exploring new facets of horror and storytelling,” said Adam.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss “Don’t Move”
As Netflix prepares to launch “Don’t Move,” anticipation builds around the narrative combination of psychological tension and horror. With compelling performances and a story that keeps viewers at the edge of their seats, this film embodies the essence of what makes great horror so impactful. Mark your calendars for October 24th, 2024, for a spine-chilling cinematic experience that is sure to raise the horror bar once again. Be tempted to witness Iris’s struggle and the immersive storytelling that has captivated both audiences and critics alike!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main premise of “Don’t Move”?
“Don’t Move” revolves around Iris, a woman who finds herself paralyzed after a chance encounter in the woods. The film explores her desperate fight for survival as she navigates her incapacitation.
Who directed “Don’t Move”?
The film is co-directed by Brian Netto and Adam Schindler, both of whom have previously collaborated with talented writers T.J. Cimfel and David White.
When will “Don’t Move” be released?
“Don’t Move” will be available for streaming on Netflix on October 24th, 2024.
What influenced the filmmakers while creating this horror film?
Brian and Adam drew inspiration from classic horror films, particularly “Don’t Breathe,” emphasizing the experiential aspect of the narrative as they wanted audiences to feel the protagonist’s paralysis deeply.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect production?
The pandemic caused delays and challenges, but it ultimately allowed for a collaborative virtual process that helped solidify the script before filming commenced.
Are there notable performances in “Don’t Move”?
Kelsey Asbille delivers a profound performance as Iris, showcasing emotional depth even in her immobilized state, complemented by Finn Wittrock’s dynamic portrayal of a pivotal character in the film.
What were some challenges faced during filming?
Filming in the unpredictable weather of Bulgaria posed significant challenges, alongside navigating complications from multiple strikes occurring in Hollywood during production.
How does “Don’t Move” maintain its horror elements?
The film cleverly juxtaposes the serene beauty of its outdoor setting with the growing tension and horror of Iris’s predicament, using sound and visuals to enhance the experience.
What’s next for the directors after “Don’t Move”?
Brian and Adam are exploring several new projects, including a science fiction horror script and collaborations with Sam Raimi on genre-focused narratives.
Where can I watch “Don’t Move”?
You can watch “Don’t Move” exclusively on Netflix starting October 24th, 2024. Be sure to check it out!
Tags
Netflix, Don’t Move, Brian Netto, Adam Schindler, Horror Thriller, Kelsey Asbille, Finn Wittrock, Film Review, Sam Raimi