Tag: Night Swim

“Night Swim” Now Showing – A Supernatural Thriller from Horror Titans James Wan and Jason Blum

In a thrilling venture that marks another collaboration between horror aficionados James Wan and Jason Blum, “Night Swim” emerges as the latest supernatural sensation to hit the silver screen. Inspired by Bryce McGuire‘s hauntingly captivating short film from 2014, this full-length feature promises to draw audiences into its eerie depths, now showing in cinemas worldwide.

Origins of a Nightmarish Vision

The journey of “Night Swim” from a viral YouTube short to a cinematic masterpiece began in the backyard of none other than Grammy-winning artist Michelle Branch. Directed by Bryce McGuire, the original short featured Megalyn Echikunwoke in a gripping tale of a simple evening swim turned sinister. Captivating Judson Scott, EVP at Atomic Monster, the short film’s unique blend of mystery and horror soon caught the attention of James Wan, “It was abundantly clear from watching the short that Bryce was a gifted filmmaker with a command of craft and tone,” Wan, co-producer for Night Swim the movie, says. “The story it told was so mysterious and evocative, and Bryce had a compelling vision for how it could be turned into something bigger, stranger and scarier while also being emotionally resonant.”

A Collaborative Spectacle of Horror

Jason Blum, of Blumhouse Productions says, “What I liked about Bryce’s script was how it fleshed out the premise of a ‘spooky swimming pool’ in a credible, relatable, emotional way that felt contemporary and relatable yet classical at the same time.” This project marks another successful collaboration between Blum and Wan, following their joint success with the 2022 blockbuster, “M3GAN.”

The Menace Beneath the Surface

“Night Swim” reimagines the quintessential suburban leisure—swimming in a backyard pool—as a conduit for demonic terror. The film pays homage to the eerie charm of 1980s horror classics, such as “Poltergeist” and “Pet Sematary,” while infusing it with the innovative and sinister storytelling Wan and Blum are renowned for. Director McGuire explains, “It’s sexy; it’s seductive, and that’s what makes it deadly. The colors are rich and vibrant; the cool glowing turquoise water invites us like a siren call. But in the water, when the lights go out, it feels big. I also loved the idea of tapping into the universal memories we all have with the pool from our childhoods – reaching into the drain flap, skimming out dead bugs from the surface, getting your leg caught in the pool cleaner tube, playing Marco Polo – and turning these memories into unique scares.

An Experience Not to Be Missed

“Night Swim” stands as a testament to the power of collaboration among some of the most influential minds in the horror genre. Distributed by Universal Pictures International, the film invites audiences to experience a chilling journey that promises not just to scare but to resonate on a deeply emotional level. As McGuire puts it, “I would always say on set, ‘I want to smell the chlorine.’ I hope people smell the chlorine when they watch this movie on a big screen.”

“Night Swim” is not just a movie; it’s an immersive experience. Now showing in cinemas, this supernatural thriller beckons you to brave the waters and uncover what truly lies beneath the surface. #NightSwimMovie

Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on Night Swim.

February 23, 2024
New Movies This Week: ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc,’ ‘Death Whisperer,’ ‘Night Swim,’ ‘The Holdovers,’ and more!

It’s another exciting week at the movies with a diverse lineup of films! From the intense training and looming confrontations of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc,” to the chilling curse of “Death Whisperer,” the inescapable terror of “Night Swim,” the solitary struggle against darkness in “Outpost,” the heartwarming connections formed in “The Holdovers,” and the legendary rock performances in “Queen Rock Montreal,” there’s an array of cinematic treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re in search of adrenaline-pumping action, spine-tingling thrills, emotional narratives, or the unforgettable charisma of Queen’s Freddie Mercury, this week’s lineup has something for every movie lover. Prepare for a week filled with diverse stories and mesmerizing performances that will leave you thrilled, chilled, and utterly entertained. Don’t miss out on these must-see movies hitting theaters near you!

Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc

2024 • PG • 1 hr 44 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION
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Embark on a breathtaking journey with “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – To the Hashira Training.” This pivotal chapter bridges the Swordsmith Village arc and the forthcoming showdown with the demon lord Muzan Kibutsuji. Watch as Tanjiro commits to rigorous training under the stern gaze of the Stone Hashira, Himejima, aspiring to rise among the ranks of the elite demon slayers. Meanwhile, the shadow of Muzan looms ever closer to Nezuko and Ubuyashiki, intensifying the stakes.

Death Whisperer

2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs
HORROR, THRILLER
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Set in a remote village haunted by a deadly curse, “Death Whisperer” follows a brother’s desperate battle to save his family from a spine-chilling supernatural threat. Brace yourself for a film where traditional horror meets a gripping storyline.

Night Swim

2024 • PG • 1 hr 38 mins
HORROR
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No running. No diving. No lifeguard on duty. No swimming after dark. Based on the acclaimed 2014 short film, “Night Swim” tells the story of Ray Waller, a former major league baseball player forced into early retirement by a degenerative illness. Secretly hoping, against the odds, to return to pro ball, Ray persuades his wife, Eve, that their new home’s shimmering backyard swimming pool will be fun for the kids and provide physical therapy for him. But a dark secret in the home’s past will unleash a malevolent force that will drag the family under, into the depths of inescapable terror.

Outpost

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 28 mins
DRAMA, HORROR, THRILLER
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After a violent attack, a woman seeks refuge in the solitude of a lookout job, hoping to find strength. However, the shadows of her past and the solitude of her new post become a breeding ground for something darker. “Outpost” promises a gripping narrative that delves into the psychological horrors that lurk in the uncharted territories of the mind.

The Holdovers

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 13 mins
DRAMA, COMEDY
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A grumpy instructor finds himself stuck on a New England prep school campus during Christmas break, entrusted with the care of a handful of students. What ensues is an unexpected bond between the curmudgeon, a brainy troublemaker, and the school’s grieving head cook. “The Holdovers” weaves a heartwarming tale of unlikely connections, laughter, and the spirit of togetherness.

Queen Rock Montreal (Opening Date: Feb 22)

2024 • G • 1 hr 35 mins
CONCERT, MUSIC
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Relive the magic of Queen with “Queen Rock Montreal.” Immerse yourself in two iconic concerts, including their unforgettable 1981 performance in Montreal and the legendary Live Aid show in 1985. With Freddie Mercury’s magnetic stage presence, the film captures the essence of Queen’s greatness. Don’t miss the chance to witness rock history unfold on the big screen.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:

I Am Not Big Bird

2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 36 mins
COMEDY
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Madame Web

2024 • PG • 1 hr 56 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
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Poor Things

2024 • R-16 • 2 hrs 21 mins
COMEDY, ROMANCE, SCIENCE FICTION
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The Jack in the Box Rises

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 31 mins
HORROR, MYSTERY
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Mean Girls

2024 • PG • 1 hr 52 mins
COMEDY
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Lisa Frankenstein

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 41 mins
COMEDY, HORROR, ROMANCE
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Ikaw Pa Rin Ang Pipiliin Ko

2024 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins
MUSIC, ROMANCE
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No Way Up

2024 • PG • 1 hrs 30 mins
ACTION, THRILLER
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Argylle

2023 • PG • 2 hrs 15 mins
ACTION, COMEDY, CRIME
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My Sassy Girl

2023 • PG • 1 hr 57 mins
COMEDY, DRAMA, ROMANCE
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Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

2023 • PG • 2 hrs 4 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, FANTASY
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That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. So, don’t wait! Secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and immerse yourself in the excitement of these new releases. As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these must-see releases. Remember to check ClickTheCity for screening times and make your next movie-going experience unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!

February 21, 2024
“Doing Horror Movies is a Way of Taking Control of My Fears,” Says Amélie Hoeferle, in the Supernatural Thriller “Night Swim”

“The children were great!” says Academy Award nominee Kerry Condon of Amélie Hoeferle and Gavin Warren, who play her character’s children in Night Swim, a new supernatural thriller opening in cinemas this week.

In Night Swim, based on director McGuire’s acclaimed 2014 short film of the same name, Ray Waller (Wyatt Russell) is a former major league baseball player forced into early retirement by a degenerative illness. Secretly hoping, against the odds, to return to pro ball, Ray persuades his wife, Eve (Condon), that their new home’s shimmering backyard swimming pool will be fun for the kids (Hoeferle and Warren) and provide physical therapy for him. But a dark secret in the home’s past will unleash a malevolent force that will drag the family under, into the depths of inescapable terror.

To Hoeferle, who plays 15-year-old Izzy Waller in the film and who first captured Hollywood’s attention with an award-winning horror short, The Boogeywoman, horror vibes come easy. “It’s funny that I keep getting drawn into these scary stories, I find it amusing,” Hoeferle says. “I used to be an anxious child. I still am in some ways. I used to fear a lot of things. So doing horror movies is a way of taking back that fear and taking control of it.”

Despite her experience in the genre, reading the script for Night Swim proved to be a chilling experience. “When I first got the script, I was so scared reading it,” Hoeferle says. “It was night, the lights in my house were dim, and I remember reading it at my desk and feeling like someone was behind me. Just in general, the script captures that scary feeling that there’s something lurking in the shadows, hunting you, and more specific to the movie, it captures that dread you feel when you’re in the water, whether it’s the ocean or in a pool, and you let yourself wonder: Is there something underneath me? It’s such a potent, primal fear.”

The role of 12-year-old Elliot Waller was the toughest to cast, according to director Bryce McGuire. Luckily, they found Warren, who is “an absolute fish, an amazing swimmer who loved the water,” says McGuire.

But the water work wasn’t always easy for Warren, especially if the scenes involved interacting with the pool’s ghoulish entities. “Whenever Elliot goes into the pool, things get creepy,” Warren says. “He seems to be able to see the weird, monstrous things that haunt the pool that no one else can. But for me, seeing these monsters was rather scary, because the make-up on them was so good. I did not want to get in the water with them.” But Warren’s experience in the post-apocalyptic world of Fear the Walking Dead served him well. “I had an awesome time making this movie,” Warren says. “I love scary movies and TV shows, and I love doing them, whether it’s doing scenes with monsters or getting dragged around by them. I love doing my own stunts, when they let me.”

Dare to take a dive when Night Swim, distributed by Universal Pictures International, opens in cinemas February 21. #NightSwimMoviePh

Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on Night Swim.

February 19, 2024
Wyatt Russell Plunges Into Darkness in ‘Night Swim’: A Sinister Tale Beyond the Pool

Wyatt Russell, celebrated for his roles in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” and “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters,” brings a unique perspective to his latest role in the supernatural thriller “Night Swim.” Directed by Bryce McGuire, this film not only captivates with its spine-tingling premise but also showcases Russell’s personal connection to his character, Ray Waller, a former baseball pro grappling with a life-altering illness.

Russell’s journey as a professional athlete, transitioning into acting after a sports career cut short by injuries, echoes the narrative of Ray Waller. “There are aspects of this character that obviously I’ve felt before, or seen in people I know, where you’re sort of losing your ability and sense of identity to injury,” says Russell, who played hockey on the amateur and professional levels for six years, until injuries forced him to quit. “I know the feeling of wanting to do anything, even if it’s detrimental to yourself or your family, to keep playing; it’s a hard drug to let go of. There was that element of it that I know Bryce wanted, and I was able to do that because I had lived aspects of that life.”

In Night Swim, based on director McGuire’s acclaimed 2014 short film of the same name, Ray Waller (Russell) is a former major league baseball player forced into early retirement by a degenerative illness. Secretly hoping, against the odds, to return to pro ball, Ray persuades his wife, Eve (Kerry Condon), that their new home’s shimmering backyard swimming pool will be fun for the kids (Amélie Hoeferle and Gavin Warren) and provide physical therapy for him. But a dark secret in the home’s past will unleash a malevolent force that will drag the family under, into the depths of inescapable terror.

Besides his personal connection to his character, Russell says he was drawn to Night Swim because of the thematically rich story that McGuire had built from its fiendishly simple swimming-pool premise.

“I just love everything that the swimming pool represented – how it gives life and takes it away; how it holds both good and evil – and how it made for a refreshingly different approach to a genre story,” Russell says, adding he also appreciated the trajectory of Ray’s increasingly dark arc and how the true evil that threatens Ray and his family isn’t supernatural but his own flaws. “I liked how his selfishness and his misguided strategies for dealing with everything that comes with M.S. [multiple sclerosis] ends up being the forces that drive him. He’s a nice guy with a nice, normal family dealing with very real human dilemmas, but there’s this little kernel of narcissism that leaves him vulnerable to corruption that can take over his soul. It was just a fun part to play.”

Director Bryce McGuire praises Russell’s fearless approach to the role. “From our first conversation, I saw how deeply he understood the psychology of an athlete and an athlete’s struggle to move on from the sport they’ve dedicated so much of their life to,” he says of Russell. “Wyatt was a joy to work with for me because he was completely fearless. Without saying too much, he has to go to some extreme places in the movie and he was never self-conscious. He understands how to connect to an audience and he’ll try five different versions of something to give you options. That’s a dream for a director. He was game for anything, very selfless and always thinking of the movie.”

Prepare for a cinematic plunge into the eerie and suspenseful world of “Night Swim,” distributed by Universal Pictures International. The film opens in cinemas on February 21, offering audiences a gripping tale of psychological and supernatural terror.

Don’t miss any updates on this thrilling journey into the unknown. Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest news on “Night Swim.”

Embrace the thrill and suspense as “Night Swim” unfolds a tale of a family caught in a terrifying web of supernatural forces and personal demons. This film promises to be an unforgettable addition to the thriller genre. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #NightSwimMoviePh and brace yourself for a dive into the depths of this haunting story.

February 16, 2024
Academy Award Nominee Kerry Condon Combines Her Love of Cinema and Water in the Supernatural Thriller “Night Swim”

One of the reasons Kerry Condon wanted to dive into Night Swim was the water.

“I was always interested in doing swimming on-camera and combining those two great interests for me,” Condon, an accomplished swimmer who swam competitively as a child, says. “I am a good swimmer and I wanted to show my physicality. I love water in movies and I think filming in water is beautiful, so I wanted to be a part of that and learn more about it.”

Another major reason was the genre. “I thought this was a great opportunity for me that I’d never done a horror movie before, and I’ve always wanted a career that would allow me to be a character actress in every kind of genre,” shares Condon, who was nominated for a Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for her role in the comedy The Banshees of Inisherin. Condon was also a recurring character in the critically acclaimed drama Better Call Saul (a Breaking Bad spinoff).

In Night Swim, based on McGuire’s acclaimed 2014 short film of the same name, Ray Waller (Wyatt Russell) is a former major league baseball player forced into early retirement by a degenerative illness. Secretly hoping, against the odds, to return to pro ball, Ray persuades his wife, Eve (Condon), that their new home’s shimmering backyard swimming pool will be fun for the kids (Amélie Hoeferle and Gavin Warren) and provide physical therapy for him. But a dark secret in the home’s past will unleash a malevolent force that will drag the family under, into the depths of inescapable terror.

“On the day I met Kerry, she had been nominated for a Golden Globe for Banshees of Inisherin and swam a mile in the ocean that morning – not a bad day,” director Bryce McGuire says. “She had to do some really demanding underwater work, especially late in the movie, that most people simply would not have been able to do. She’s an extremely tough and physical actor. Something special happens with Kerry every time the camera rolls. She really pushed me and the material, and she’s fantastic in the movie.”

Condon enjoyed working with McGuire as well. “Bryce knew a lot about the genre and that was important to me because I hadn’t done something like this before,” she says. “He had a lot of references and wanted it to be character-based, which appealed to me. A lot was riding on Bryce, and he gave it everything. He was also always open to collaboration, which was great. I have worked with directors in the past that didn’t want to listen to other suggestions, but I believe that the best idea should win, doesn’t matter who gave it and Bryce felt the same.”

Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on Night Swim. #NightSwimMoviePh

February 8, 2024
February 2024 Film Guide: Must-See Movies Hitting Theaters

February is here, bringing with it an exciting lineup of new movies set to entertain, thrill, and tug at your heartstrings. Whether you’re a fan of romance, action, or suspense, there’s something for everyone in this month’s cinematic lineup. Join us as we explore a sneak peek of the must-watch films hitting theaters this February!

Lisa Frankenstein

Opening Date: February 7
2024 • 1 hr 41 mins
COMEDY, HORROR, ROMANCE
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Prepare for a twisted tale of love and horror in “Lisa Frankenstein,” brought to life by acclaimed writer Diablo Cody (“Jennifer’s Body”). This unconventional love story follows a misunderstood teenager and her crush, who just so happens to be a reanimated corpse! As they embark on a murderous journey in search of love and happiness, be prepared for playfully horrific circumstances and a few missing body parts along the way.

Mean Girls

Opening Date: February 7
2024 • 1 hr 53 mins
COMEDY
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Tina Fey’s modern classic gets a fresh twist in “Mean Girls.” Join new student Cady Heron as she navigates the treacherous halls of high school, infiltrating the elite clique known as “The Plastics.” But when romance complicates her mission, Cady must team up with her outcast friends to take down the queen bee herself. Get ready for laughs, drama, and plenty of girl power.

Tokyo Revengers 2: Bloody Halloween – Decisive Battle

Opening Date: February 7
2023 • 1 hr 36 mins
ACTION, CRIME, DRAMA
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The battle for Tokyo’s streets heats up in “Tokyo Revengers 2: Bloody Halloween – Decisive Battle.” As former friends turn foes, alliances are tested and loyalties are questioned. Can Takemichi prevent a catastrophic outcome and save his friends’ future? Brace yourself for intense action, heartbreaking revelations, and the ultimate showdown.

Madame Web

2024 •
Opening Date: February 14
ACTION, FANTASY, SCIENCE FICTION
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Marvel takes a thrilling turn with “Madame Web,” a suspense-driven thriller that unveils the enigmatic origins of Cassandra Webb. Played by Dakota Johnson, a paramedic in Manhattan discovers the power to see the future. As she grapples with revelations about her past, Webb forges a relationship with three young women, each bound for powerful destinies, if they can survive a deadly present.

The Holdovers

2023 • 2 hrs 13 mins
Opening Date: February 21
COMEDY, DRAMA
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From acclaimed director Alexander Payne comes “The Holdovers,” a touching story of unlikely friendships. Paul Giamatti stars as a curmudgeonly instructor who forms a bond with a troubled student and a grieving school cook. Set against the backdrop of Christmas break, this film explores themes of redemption, connection, and the power of human kindness. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired by the magic of unexpected friendships.

Night Swim

2024 • 1 hr 41 mins
Opening Date: February 21
COMEDY, HORROR, ROMANCE
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For horror enthusiasts craving a spine-chilling experience, “Night Swim” delivers in spades. Inspired by a 2014 short film, this tale follows Ray Waller, a former baseball player grappling with a dark secret in his new home. As the family’s idyllic life turns into a nightmare, they must confront a malevolent force lurking in the shadows. With suspenseful twists and heart-pounding scares, “Night Swim” is not for the faint of heart.

Dune: Part Two

2024 • 2 hrs 46 mins
Opening Date: February 28
ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
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Closing out the month with a bang is “Dune: Part Two,” the highly anticipated sequel to the epic saga. Join Paul Atreides as he embarks on a mythic journey of revenge and redemption. With the fate of the universe hanging in the balance, he must make impossible choices that will shape the course of history. Prepare for breathtaking visuals, epic battles, and a story that will leave you craving for more.

February’s cinematic lineup is as diverse as it is captivating, offering something for every moviegoer. Whether you’re in the mood for a quirky horror-comedy, a nostalgic high school drama, an action-packed manga adaptation, a superhero thriller, heartfelt dramas, or a grand sci-fi epic, February 2024 has it all. Be sure to check out these exciting releases at your local theaters!

[Note: release dates for movies in Philippine cinemas this February 2024 and film lineup are subject to change without prior notice. For more upcoming movies, click here.]

February 5, 2024
Diving into the Depths of Fear: ‘Night Swim’ Unveils Its Haunting Waters

In the realm of horror, few elements are as universally unnerving as the vast, unpredictable expanse of water. ‘Night Swim,’ the latest supernatural thriller to hit the screens, taps into this primal fear with a narrative that’s as deep and dark as the waters that inspired it. Directed by Bryce McGuire and backed by the producing prowess of James Wan and Jason Blum, ‘Night Swim’ is not just a film; it’s a journey into the heart of aquaphobia, inspired by horror classics like ‘Poltergeist,’ ‘Christine,’ ‘Burnt Offerings,’ and the ever-potent ‘Jaws.’

The Genesis of Terror: Bryce McGuire’s Aquatic Obsession

Bryce McGuire’s connection to water runs deep. Growing up in Florida’s water-wrapped environs, McGuire’s life was a tapestry of awe-inspiring and terrifying water-related experiences. From hurricanes to shark attacks, his childhood was a testament to water’s dual nature as a giver and taker of life. This complex relationship with water not only shaped McGuire’s early years but also deeply influenced his creative path.

From Childhood Fears to Cinematic Frights

McGuire’s fascination with horror and water-themed thrillers crystallized into a vivid fear during a childhood incident involving a swimming pool and a viewing of ‘Jaws.’ This fear, though irrational to an adult mind, highlighted the water’s ability to transform into a domain of unknown horrors, even in the safe confines of a backyard pool.

‘Night Swim’: A Dive into Darkness

‘Night Swim‘ is more than just a film; it’s the culmination of McGuire’s lifelong dance with water and fear. The story revolves around Ray Waller (portrayed by Wyatt Russell), a former major league baseball player whose life takes a sinister turn when his family’s new home, complete with a luxurious swimming pool, becomes the stage for a nightmarish ordeal. The film, based on McGuire’s acclaimed 2014 short of the same name, explores themes of ambition, loss, and the unseen terrors that lurk beneath the surface of our desires.

A Pool of Talent: The Creative Minds Behind the Horror

The collaboration between Bryce McGuire, James Wan, and Jason Blum represents a meeting of minds uniquely attuned to the nuances of horror storytelling. Wan’s enthusiasm for McGuire’s vision and Blum’s appreciation for the script’s emotional depth and contemporary relevance highlight the team’s commitment to crafting a film that’s as emotionally resonant as it is terrifying.

Plunging into the Premiere: How to Join the Fright

Prepare to be submerged in suspense and terror with ‘Night Swim,’ set to premiere on February 21. Distributed by Universal Pictures International, this film promises to be a thrilling addition to the horror genre. Stay updated on all things ‘Night Swim’ by following Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

February 1, 2024