My Animal: Everything We Know About Amandla Stenberg's Sundance Horror Movie
In 2022, slasher movies reigned supreme. From the nostalgia-ripping "Scream" sequel to Ti West's bloody "X" trilogy, fans of the genre were treated to a bit of everything. This is especially true with the slasher-comedy "Bodies Bodies Bodies," which saw a new, unlikely horror star emerge. Amandla Stenberg, previously known for their work in YA novel adaptations, has solidified themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the genre. They may have their own "Star Wars" show in the works, but Stenberg is not leaving horror fans behind any time soon, either.
"My Animal" is set to be the next foray into horror for Stenberg, but they will be trading the comedic undertones of "Bodies" for a straight-up monster flick this time around. Although Stenberg will be joined by a familiar face or two on this latest endeavor, "My Animal" features an up-and-coming cast and crew looking to their presence known in a big way. Despite being a month away from its festival debut, "My Animal" has been acquired by a major distributor. And judging by the logline, it's no wonder the buzz has already started. Spoiler alert: Werewolves are involved.
What the film is about
Werewolves are all the rage these days, but "My Animal" is taking a less superficial route to the concept. The upcoming film follows Heather (Bobbi Salvör Menuez), a young woman in a small northern town that is forced to be a recluse due to her unique condition (hint: she can't leave her house during a full moon). In addition to being a werewolf, Heather struggles with the inherently constrictive nature of living in her hometown, but she is not alone. Stenberg plays Jonny, a figure skater and love interest to Jonny that upends her life in ways that I'm sure will make for an intriguing twist to the classic tale.
Check out the official plot synopsis:
"Tamped down by an oppressive family dynamic orbiting around her alcoholic mother, kept on the sidelines of the hockey team she yearns to join, and imprisoned in her own home each full moon, Heather is in a struggle for her life against the constrictive forces in her small northern town. When an intriguing figure skater enters the rink, Heather's life, sexuality, and personhood is pried open. Far from the typical werewolf story, Heather's condition is one of many reasons for her outcast status. Luckily, Jonny is happy to join her on the outskirts."
Here's when you might be able to watch it
"My Animal" is set to have its world premiere during the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. However, the Paramount Worldwide Acquisition Group has already nabbed the distribution rights to the film. There is no current indication as to when "My Animal" will hit theaters, and I'd expect that we'll have to wait until the end of its festival run to hear any news. But judging by the fact that it'll get a headstart in January, there is a chance that the film could release at some point in the latter half of 2023. However, a 2024 release window would not be shocking if the film continues to screen in festivals until the end of next year.
Paramount Pictures has been filling up its horror portfolio as of late. Their most recent release, "Smile," garnered mostly favorable reactions and just arrived at their streaming service, Paramount+. Speaking of which, it's totally possible, if not likely, that "My Animal" lands on the streamer, theatrical run or not. After all, Paramount+ is familiar with character-driven stories that feature a werewolf or two.
An up-and-coming cast and crew
Before "Bodies Bodies Bodies," Amandla Stenberg starred in several book-to-screen adaptations, including "The Hunger Games," "The Darkest Minds," and "The Hate You Give." Their co-star, Bobbi Salvör Menuez, who plays the protagonist of "My Animal," previously appeared in "Under the Silver Lake" and "I Love Dick." Meanwhile, Stephen McHattie ("300," "Watchmen") and Heidi von Palleske ("Dead Ringers") round out the supporting cast of "My Animal."
Behind the scenes, a fresh crop of talent emerges. Jacqueline Castel makes her feature directorial debut with "My Animal" after having helmed several short films including "The Puppet Man" and "Now Wakes the Sea." She directs a screenplay by Jae Matthews, who also makes his feature-length debut with the werewolf flick. Bryn McCashin ("Bite Size Halloween") serves as a director of photography and, judging by officially released stills, they did not shoot it like your typical monster film. Andrew Bronfman ("Die in a Gunfight") and Michael Solomon ("The Castle in the Ground") produce "My Animal."
Despite being acquired by a major distribution company, "My Animal" is shaping up to be a big stepping stone for a lot of the artists involved. An official release date (and trailer) will be hard to come by for a while, but the current details paint a picture worth anticipating.