Level 33 Entertainment brings ‘The Shade’ to North America

A new horror film set to captivate audiences

Level 33 Entertainment has announced its acquisition of North American distribution rights for the supernatural horror film The Shade. This indie thriller, featuring Chris Galust and Tony Award-winner Laura Benanti, is set to hit theaters across the U.S. and Canada this fall, followed by a digital release.

A fresh voice in horror

The Shade marks the directorial debut of Tyler Chipman, who also penned the script. Produced by David Purdy for Red King Cinema, the film delves into themes of mental health, family dynamics, and generational trauma. The story follows Ryan Beckman (Galust), a young man grappling with his father’s recent death. As he tries to support his mother Renee (Benanti) and younger brother James (Sam Duncan), an ominous presence begins to haunt his older brother Jason (Dylan McTee), a college athlete who has unexpectedly returned home.

Watch the trailer for The Shade

Behind the scenes

The distribution deal was negotiated by David Purdy for the filmmakers and Andreas Olavarria, president and CEO of Level 33. Purdy expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We’ve always envisioned Red King as a vehicle for telling stories as honestly as possible, regardless of how complex the subject matter might be. We look for new ways to blur genre lines to shine a light on important topics and we think The Shade is the perfect film to introduce our brand of cinema to the world.”

Olavarria added, “We’re very excited about the opportunity to showcase The Shade, which represents a fresh, thrilling voice in genre storytelling, in theaters and via digital platforms across North America. Red King are a formidable new player on the indie horror scene and we’re thrilled to be working with their team to bring this quality film to audiences this fall.”

Level 33 Entertainment’s mission

Based in Los Angeles, Level 33 Entertainment focuses on promoting diverse voices in independent film. The company offers distribution services across various platforms, including theatrical, home entertainment, and streaming. Recently, they acquired East Bay, a dark comedy film starring Constance Wu, known for her roles in Fresh Off the Boat and Crazy Rich Asians.

Watch the trailer for East Bay

Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts

As a cinema enthusiast, the announcement of The Shade is particularly exciting. The film’s exploration of mental health and family dynamics within the horror genre promises a unique and thought-provoking experience. The combination of a fresh directorial voice and a talented cast, including the versatile Laura Benanti, suggests that this film will be a standout in the indie horror scene.

For those who appreciate films that push the boundaries of genre and storytelling, The Shade is a must-watch. The film’s ability to intertwine supernatural elements with real-world issues makes it a compelling addition to the fall movie lineup.

In-depth analysis

The Shade is not just another horror film; it is a narrative that seeks to explore deeper psychological and emotional themes. The character of Ryan Beckman, portrayed by Chris Galust, is a young man burdened by the weight of his family’s trauma. His journey is one of resilience and vulnerability, making him a relatable protagonist for many viewers.

The film’s setting, a family home haunted by an ominous presence, serves as a metaphor for the unresolved issues and secrets that plague the Beckman family. This setting creates an atmosphere of tension and suspense, keeping the audience on edge as the story unfolds.

Distinctive comments

One of the most intriguing aspects of The Shade is its ability to blur the lines between reality and the supernatural. This approach not only heightens the horror elements but also allows for a more nuanced exploration of the characters’ inner struggles. The film’s ability to balance these elements is a testament to Tyler Chipman’s skill as a storyteller.

Moreover, the inclusion of a strong supporting cast, including Dylan McTee and Sam Duncan, adds depth to the narrative. Each character brings their own perspective and challenges, contributing to the film’s overall complexity and richness.

Final thoughts

The Shade is poised to make a significant impact on the indie horror scene. With its compelling narrative, talented cast, and innovative approach to genre storytelling, it is a film that promises to resonate with audiences. As we look forward to its release, it is clear that The Shade will be a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought and discussion.

For those eager to experience this thrilling new film, be sure to catch The Shade in theaters this fall and on digital platforms soon after.