Poison Pictures is set to shake up the political thriller genre with their provocative new film, The Exit State. Shot against the backdrop of a tumultuous near-future United States, the film promises a gripping blend of horror, political commentary, and raw human emotion. And for the first time, we are offering early access to exclusive interviews with the cast and creators—giving fans and cinephiles alike an inside look at what makes this film a must-watch.
A Reunion of Talents and a Bold New Direction
The Exit State reunites acclaimed actors Clayton Farris and Callie Schuttera, who first captivated audiences in the horror sensation Weapons. Farris, known for his roles in FX’s American Horror Story, Netflix’s Ratched, and A24’s MaXXXine, teams up with Schuttera, who has impressed viewers in ABC’s The Rookie and Prime Video’s On Call. Joining them is Emmy Award-winning actress Sharon Lawrence, alongside a talented ensemble cast including Jeremy D. Howard, Josh George, Nikki Dixon, Cindy Nguyen, and Stakiah Lynn Washington.
This marks director Gabriela Ledesma’s first venture into the horror-thriller realm, adding a fresh perspective to her acclaimed body of work. The film is the third feature from indie powerhouse Poison Pictures, known for pushing boundaries and tackling timely themes.
A Near-Future America on the Brink
Set in a United States spiraling toward authoritarian collapse, The Exit State follows a diverse group of Americans fleeing south toward Mexico as their homeland descends into chaos. Violence surges, and sweeping policies turn the nation against its own citizens. Hoping to find safety and anonymity, the group takes refuge in what they believe is a secure safe house. But their sanctuary quickly reveals itself to be anything but safe.
As they confront the horrifying truth that escape may come at a devastating cost, the film explores the fragile nature of freedom—a theme that resonates deeply in today’s world. Rather than leaning on speculative sci-fi tropes, The Exit State grounds its horror in modern fears and realities, making its story all the more unsettling and urgent.
A Thought-Provoking Political Horror
What sets The Exit State apart is its unflinching look at contemporary issues through the lens of horror. It examines how societal upheaval and governmental overreach threaten individual freedoms, pushing characters to the brink. The film serves as a mirror to current events, highlighting the importance—and fragility—of liberty in a rapidly changing world.
Coming Soon—Stay Tuned for More
While the film does not yet have an official release date, excitement is building for its debut. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how Ledesma’s first foray into horror will challenge audiences and provoke conversations about the state of democracy and human rights.
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