Stevens Returns to Wingard’s KPG Universe in 'Onslaught' Amid RoboCop and Dexter Projects
Dan Stevens stars as a deranged Nazi scientist in Adam Wingard’s new action-thriller 'Onslaught,' an indirect sequel to 'The Guest' that expands the KPG universe. The film, which opens September 4, features a brutal slasher plot involving super-soldiers and a mother defending her trailer park community. While Stevens discusses the character's creation and the film's connection to his previous work, he also highlights upcoming roles in 'RoboCop' and 'Dexter: Resurrection.'
Key points
- 'Onslaught' is an indirect sequel to 'The Guest' (2014), completing a spiritual trilogy with 'You're Next' (2011).
- Stevens plays Dr. Hans Kammler, a Nazi scientist linked to Operation Paperclip, who works for the organization Priapus.
- Director Adam Wingard confirmed that Kammler is the 'K' in KPG and Priapus is the 'P,' connecting the new film to the previous universe.
- The film features a climactic showdown at a trailer park defended by Adria Arjona’s character, a former Army sniper.
- Stevens is also set to star as Alex Murphy in an Amazon Prime Video 'RoboCop' series and plays a 'nasty' sociopath in 'Dexter: Resurrection' Season 2.
Background
Dan Stevens and Adam Wingard previously collaborated on 'The Guest' (2014) and 'Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.' Audiences had long requested a direct sequel to 'The Guest,' but the creators opted for an indirect approach with 'Onslaught.' Stevens has also recently been cast in an eight-episode 'RoboCop' reboot for Amazon Prime Video, produced by Blumhouse Atomic Monster and showrun by Peter Ocko.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter emphasizes the creative freedom Wingard gained by moving away from a direct sequel, highlighting the rapid development of the 'Kammler' character and the personal connection between Stevens and co-star Rebecca Hall. IndieWire offers a more critical view, noting that while the film is a lean, 90-minute action slasher inspired by John Carpenter, it suffers from pacing issues and a disjointed tone. IndieWire argues that Stevens’ campy performance as Kammler feels out of place compared to the grounded violence of the main plot, and that the film’s political commentary on military exploitation is overshadowed by its '80s jingoistic thrills. Both outlets agree that the film serves as a return to Wingard’s roots after his work on larger studio tentpoles.
Why it matters
The release of 'Onslaught' satisfies long-standing fan demand for more content in the 'KPG' universe without committing to a direct 'The Guest' sequel. It also marks a significant period for Dan Stevens, who is simultaneously transitioning from genre roles in 'Onslaught' and 'Dexter' to a major franchise lead in 'RoboCop,' showcasing his range across horror, action, and satire.
What to watch
'Onslaught' opens in theaters on September 4. Stevens is currently filming 'Dexter: Resurrection' Season 2 and is set to begin work on the 'RoboCop' series. Wingard and Stevens have indicated openness to future 'KPG-verse' projects, though no direct 'The Guest' sequel is currently scheduled.
- ‘Onslaught’ Star Dan Stevens on Expanding ‘The Guest’ Universe, Becoming RoboCop and His “Nasty” ‘Dexter’ Role The Hollywood Reporter
- ‘Onslaught’ Review: Too Much and Not Enough The New York Times
- ‘Onslaught’ Review: Mom vs. Super-Soldiers WSJ
- When Is Onslaught’s Digital & Streaming Release Date?’ Yahoo
- ‘Onslaught’ Review: Adam Wingard Goes Back to Basics with a Lean Military Slasher IndieWire
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