A24 Secures US Distribution Rights for Margaret Qualley’s Psychological Thriller, Production Starts in 2025

A24 has officially secured the U.S. distribution rights for the highly anticipated psychological thriller, Victorian Psycho. This film, an adaptation of Virginia Feito’s novel, centers around an unconventional governess who arrives at an isolated Gothic manor, where unsettling events foster an atmosphere of suspicion. The cast features Margaret Qualley, renowned for her role in The Substance, with Thomasin McKenzie, known for her performance in Last Night in Soho, set to join in November 2024.

As reported by Deadline, A24 triumphed in a competitive bidding war to win the domestic rights to Victorian Psycho. Filming is expected to commence in March 2025, although a release date has yet to be announced. Meanwhile, the international rights are held by production company Anton, which is fully financing the project.

Implications of A24’s Acquisition of Victorian Psycho

Aligning with A24 and Star Genre Trends

A24’s acquisition illustrates the studio’s unwavering commitment to the psychological thriller genre. While specifics regarding the film’s narrative or production remain to be detailed, the premise emphasizes psychological exploration within a Gothic setting. This aligns with A24’s reputation for promoting distinctive storytelling, marking a strategic addition to their genre-focused portfolio.

Historically, A24 has ventured into psychological thrillers, from Under the Skin, featuring Scarlett Johansson, to the intense Enemy by Denis Villeneuve. The past decade has witnessed A24 achieving critical acclaim for films within this realm, such as the recent Heretic, which garnered Hugh Grant a Golden Globe nomination for his role as the nefarious Mr. Reed.

For Margaret Qualley, Victorian Psycho represents yet another platform to showcase her talents in intricate, character-focused narratives. Her recent performances in The Substance and Drive Away Dolls have distinguished her as an actress capable of embodying complex characters. This experience uniquely positions Qualley to deliver an impressive portrayal in this upcoming thriller.

Insights on A24’s Acquisition of Victorian Psycho

Margaret Qualley on the set of Kinds of Kindness. — Searchlight Pictures

The acquisition of Victorian Psycho by A24 reinforces the studio’s strong dedication to producing psychological thrillers. With filming planned for 2025 and potential for a 2026 release, this film could significantly enhance A24’s reputation for delivering compelling narratives. As the studio continues its quest for original films, Victorian Psycho may emerge as a cornerstone for future A24 projects.

Source: Deadline

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