The filmmakers known as Radio Silence made up of Chad Villella, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, and Tyler Gillett, decided to create the horror movie Abigail after their success with the Scream franchise. While initially inspired by Dracula’s Daughter, the film evolved into its own story, combining elements of a heist thriller with a monster movie.
In Abigail, a group of thieves hold a girl hostage in a mansion, only to discover she’s a vampire. Despite the initial Dracula inspiration, the script took on a life of its own, focusing on original horror elements rather than relying on established lore.
Radio Silence’s ability to blend genres has made them sought-after in the horror industry. Despite not being horror fans initially, they’ve come to appreciate the creativity and fun the genre offers. The production faced challenges, including the tragic death of actor Angus Cloud, who played one of the mercenaries. Cloud’s presence and contributions to the film were honored by keeping his scenes intact and including a song he selected.
Additionally, actress Melissa Barrera faced controversy over social media posts but remained focused on her performance in Abigail. The filmmakers hope the audience will recognize her talent despite the outside issues.
'Abigail' Filmmakers Radio Silence on Their Genre-Hopping Vampire Thriller and Honoring Angus Cloud's Final Performance https://t.co/MUvsE0M8VC
— Variety (@Variety) April 17, 2024
Looking ahead, Radio Silence aims to produce original horror films that leave audiences feeling triumphant rather than depressed. They’re also open to exploring other genres, such as comedy, while maintaining their unique voice in filmmaking.
In summary, Abigail represents Radio Silence’s return to original horror storytelling, showcasing their ability to blend genres and tackle challenges with creativity and respect. Source
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