Filming is underway in Los Angeles on under-the-radar feature drama The Red Mask, starring Helena Howard (The Wilds), Inanna Sarkis (After), Jake Abel (Malignant) and Kelli Garner (Lars And The Real Girl).
The film marks the feature debut of Ritesh Gupta who has previously made commercials for brands including Budweiser and Beats. Writers are Samantha Gurash and Patrick Robert Young.
The synopsis reads: “When outspoken queer screenwriter Allina Green (Howard) is chosen to pen the final installment of legendary slasher franchise The Red Mask, anger, outrage and online death threats from die-hard fans causes a rift in her relationship with reticent fiancé Deetz (Sarkis). Desperate for a creative breakthrough, the pair escape to a secluded airbnb where Allina concocts a dangerous game for the two to play to unlock her writer’s block. But when two uninvited houseguests, Ryan and Claire, crash the scene, the weekend takes a dark turn. And a twisted game devolves into a duel to the death.”
Producing are Atit Shah of the VC backed company Create Entertainment and Aimee Schoof and Isen Robbins of Intrinsic Value Films. Filming was at one point lined up for Kentucky but the project ultimately decided to shoot in LA.
Director Ritesh Gupta said: “I cannot be more thrilled to make my feature film debut with such an unbelievably talented cast in a story that’s so important to tell. This is a horror/thriller that addresses the culture war. About two characters struggling with identity amidst the toxic world of online anonymity.”
Producer Shah remarked: “I’ve been passionate about The Red Mask for over five years, drawn to its unique blend of psychological tension and classic horror. Working with the visionary Ritesh Gupta and a cast of incredibly talented actors has brought the story to new heights. This movie is going to be fun, terrifying, and a true labor of love. I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.”
Howard commented: “I am excited not only to be taking on an other role where life and art are mirrored but to tackle head on such dynamic cultural tensions which have been and are so prevalent in our society.”
Sarkis, who was recently cast alongside Nicolas Cage, J.K. Simmons and Giancarlo Esposito in The Prince, said today: “Playing an LGBTQ+ character of Middle Eastern descent in a movie holds deep significance, especially considering the cultural sensitivities and challenges surrounding both LGBTQ+ identities and regional cultural norms. I hope this role can foster greater understanding and visibility, offering representation for those who may feel marginalized or invisible.”
The Wilds and Madeline’s Madeline actress Howard recently starred in A24 movie I Saw The TV Glow and is in post on thriller Find Your Friends with Bella Thorne.
Howard is repped by Untitled. Sarkis is repped by Luber Roklin and CAA. Jake Abel is represented by Untitled Entertainment, Independent Artist Group and Jackoway, Austen, Tyerman. Garner is repped by MPE and Paradigm.
