Shepherd: Saban Films brings supernatural thriller to North America

Writer/director Russell Owen’s supernatural thriller Shepherd was already given a theatrical release in the United Kingdom last month, and so far has reportedly pulled in $19 million at the box office. Now Saban Films has picked up the North American distribution rights – but unfortunately, they haven’t shared exactly when or how they plan to release the film.

According to Variety, Owen has referred to Shepherd as a “passion project”, and said that it was loosely based on a true story from his native Wales. The film’s story centers on

Eric Black, who finds work on a remote, weather-worn Scottish island after the sudden death of his wife. As his sadness continues to engulf him, so do the supernatural portents of his stark new surroundings. He soon becomes plagued by terrifying visions until it is clear he must confront his past trauma to survive.

Shepherd stars Tom Hughes (Red Joan, Victoria), Kate Dickie (Game of Thrones, The Green Knight), Gaia Weiss (Vikings, Medici), and Greta Scacchi (The Player, The Terror).

Owen had this to say about the Saban Films deal:

It’s a huge privilege to see this story hit the big screen and I’m extremely pleased to be working with Saban on getting this labour of love to a North American audience.”

Saban’s Bill Bromiley added:

Russell serves up pure nightmare fuel, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality in this chilling meditation on grief. The performances are heartbreaking, especially from the compelling Hughes. We’re thrilled to bring this emotionally powerful, yet wildly unnerving film to audiences.”

Shepherd‘s UK release flew under my radar, but now that the film has caught my attention I’m looking forward to checking it out. It sounds interesting, and I really like the sound of Bromiley’s description of the movie.

Have you seen Shepherd? If so, let us know what you thought of it by leaving a comment below.