Exciting news is swirling in the world of horror cinema as a new project starring Brie Larson continues to generate buzz. The film, initially announced in 2025 under the working title Fail-Safe, has recently received a significant update that promises to elevate its status in the genre.
Brie Larson, renowned for her role as Captain Marvel, is set to lead this chilling tale, which is being spearheaded by acclaimed director JT Mollner—best known for his 2023 film Strange Darling. The movie is a horror story rooted in creature feature traditions, but with a modern twist, told from the perspective of a young boy uncovering unsettling secrets about his parents.
The project, a collaboration between Mollner and screenwriter Brian Duffield—whose credits include the recent hit No One Will Save You—is based on a short story by noted author Philip Fracassi. The script promises a tense exploration of hidden truths and disturbing secrets lurking beneath a seemingly normal family façade.
According to industry insiders, the film has now been retitled Skeletons, signaling a fresh branding for its upcoming release. The Hollywood Reporter confirms that Sony Pictures has secured the distribution rights in a competitive bidding war that saw interest from major studios including Paramount, Warner Bros., and Neon.
Sources reveal that Skeletons made waves at last week’s European Film Market, with buyers quick to place bids. Disney’s Sony emerged as the top bidder, acquiring worldwide rights in a deal believed to be in the mid-$20 million range for domestic rights alone. Exact figures for the global rights are still under wraps, but industry insiders suggest the total deal could surpass that amount.
The film’s release date remains unconfirmed, but the intense bidding and early enthusiasm hint at a high-profile release on the horizon. Details about the plot beyond the initial premise remain closely guarded, and no additional casting announcements have been made yet.
JT Mollner’s filmmaking pedigree includes the 2016 Western Outlaws and Angels and the recent Strange Darling, which showcased his talent for atmospheric storytelling. He also penned the screenplay for the upcoming The Long Walk set for release in 2025, cementing his reputation as a versatile voice in genre filmmaking.
As Skeletons moves closer to production, fans of horror and Brie Larson alike are eager to see how this sinister story unfolds. With a talented team behind it and major studio backing, this film is poised to become a notable entry in the current wave of innovative horror cinema.
