Leading independent distributor Vertical has acquired the North American and UK/Ireland distribution rights to the horror thriller ‘Natty Knocks’ from renowned filmmaker Dwight H. Little, best known for directing the slasher classic ‘Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers’. The chilling screenplay was written by up-and-coming screenwriter Benjamin Olson.
The eagerly anticipated film stars several legends of the horror genre including Bill Moseley (‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2’), Danielle Harris (the ‘Halloween’ franchise), and Robert Englund (the iconic ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ series).
Set on the spooky evening of Halloween Eve, ‘Natty Knocks’ follows a kindhearted small-town babysitter named Britt and the children under her care as they fight to survive a terrifying encounter with a menacing serial killer known as Abner Honeywell. Vertical plans to release the spine-tingling film in theaters and on video on demand platforms across North America and the UK/Ireland on July 21.
In addition to the trio of horror veterans Moseley, Harris and Englund, ‘Natty Knocks’ also features Charlotte Fountain-Jardim (the acclaimed series ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’), Thomas Robie (‘Insidious: The Last Key’), Noen Perez (the hit show ‘Grace and Frankie’) and Jason James Richter (the family films ‘Free Willy’ and ‘The Little Things’).
The film’s executive producers are producers Amit Sarin and Vineesha Arora Sarin. Veteran producers Jason Richer and Sandy Little served as producers on the project.
“’Natty Knocks’ immediately intrigued us given its powerhouse collaboration of prolific horror icons who have defined the genre for decades,” said Tony Piantedosi, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions at Vertical. “The film is a testament to Dwight Little’s experience crafting chilling tales of suspense and we’re thrilled that we were able to come on board for this exciting new project.”
The producers added in a joint statement: “We couldn’t be happier that our independent thriller ‘Natty Knocks’ has found an ideal home. Vertical is at the forefront of independent film distribution and we eagerly anticipate audiences discovering the entertaining and frightening film our immensely talented cast and director have created.”
Piantedosi negotiated the distribution deal for Vertical, while Jordan Dykstra of Film Bridge International negotiated on behalf of the filmmakers.
