A new Shudder documentary series is headed our way that explores the myths and tragedies around "cursed films" such as THE EXORCIST, POLTERGEIST, and THE OMEN. It's called – natch – CURSED FILMS and it will be hosting its World Premiere at SXSW in Austin, TX in March.
CURSED FILMS is described as
a high-end documentary series examining the facts, myths and mysteries around iconic films and franchises whose casts and crew have been struck by misfortune and tragedy, including The Exorcist, Poltergeist and The Omen, among others. Cursed Films will reveal the events that haunted these productions through interviews with experts, witnesses and the cast, directors, and producers who lived through real-life events. Where these films really cursed, as many believe, or just the victims of bad luck and bizarre circumstances?
Shudder’s General Manager Craig Engler said:
Cursed Films is a fascinating look at why these iconic horror movies have gained such an outsized reputation for being the focus of bizarre tragedies and strange coincidences that seemingly defy explanation.
Showrunner Jay Cheel said:
As a documentary filmmaker and lifelong horror fan, this project has offered an amazing opportunity to indulge my own curiosities surrounding these ‘cursed’ film productions. In turn, Cursed Films offers Shudder’s audience a unique perspective on the making of these classic movies while attempting to uncover why we’re so captivated by the catastrophes and coincidences connected to them.
CURSED FILMS is written, directed and edited by Jay Cheel (HOW TO BUILD A TIME MACHINE) and executive produced by Andrew Nicholas McCann Smith, Laura Perlmutter, Jay Cheel, and Brian Robertson. Cast includes Richard Donner, Linda Blair, Michael Berryman, Lloyd Kaufman, Kane Hodder, Gary Sherman, Eileen Dietz. The series will premiere later this year. SXSW takes place in Austin, TX on March 13–22, 2020.