Universal and Blumhouse Snag Joshua Giuliano’s Slasher River After TIFF Debut
Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Atomic Monster are closing a deal to buy Joshua Giuliano’s TIFF‑debut horror River, reportedly for north of $10 million, making it one of TIFF’s biggest sales. The film, produced by Independent Film Company and Shudder, was written and directed by Giuliano and stars Jane Levy, Jessica Rothe, Max Mattern, and Dane DiLiegro. Producers include Nick Antosca, Alex Hedlund, and Steven Schneider, with executive producers Roy Lee, James Wan, and Jason Blum among others. The plot follows three estranged siblings who scatter their father’s ashes along a rural waterway and are stalked by a masked serial killer. The deal signals a major win for Giuliano and underscores Blumhouse/Atomic Monster’s track record of backing rising horror talent, following their ongoing collaboration on Occupant and other projects.